Methods and apparatus for dynamic control of connections to co-existing radio access networks

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus for monitoring and controlling access to coexisting first and second networks within a venue. In one embodiment, the first network is a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access points (APs) in data communication with a backend controller which communicates with a dedicated background scanner. The background scanner scans for coexisting networks within the venue, and reports this to the controller. In one variant, the controller dynamically adjusts transmit characteristics of the AP(s) to manage interference between the coexisting networks. In another variant, the controller causes the energy detect threshold of a client device to be lowered so that the device may detect WLAN signals in a scenario where a coexisting RAT (for example, LTE-U or LTE-LAA) occupies the same channel and/or frequency.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is generally related to the subject matter of co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/612,630 filed Jun. 2, 2017 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS SERVICE IN A VENUE”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/183,159 filed Jun. 15, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING AND DIAGNOSING A WIRELESS NETWORK”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/063,314 filed Mar. 7, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC OPEN-ACCESS NETWORKS”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/002,232 filed Jan. 20, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS NETWORK SERVICES IN MOVING VEHICLES”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/959,948 filed Dec. 4, 2015 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS NETWORK EXTENSIBILITY AND ENHANCEMENT”; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/959,885 filed Dec. 4, 2015 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVE DATA NETWORK ACCESS”, each of the foregoing incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND 1. Technological Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wireless networks and specifically, in one or more exemplary embodiments, to methods and apparatus for dynamically controlling and optimizing connections to coexisting radio access networks (“RANs”), such as those providing connectivity via Wi-Fi, LTE-U (Long Term Evolution in unlicensed spectrum) and/or LTE-LAA (Long Term Evolution, Licensed Assisted Access) technologies.

2. Description of Related Technology

A multitude of wireless networking technologies, also known as Radio Access Technologies (“RATs”), provide the underlying means of connection for radio-based communication networks to user devices. User client devices currently in use (e.g., smartphone, tablet, phablet, laptop, smartwatch, or other wireless-enabled devices, mobile or otherwise) generally support one or more RATs that enable the devices to connect to one another, or to networks (e.g., the Internet, intranets, or extranets). In particular, wireless access to other networks by client devices is made possible by wireless technologies that utilize networked hardware, such as a wireless access point (“WAP” or “AP”), small cells, femtocells, or cellular towers, serviced by a backend or backhaul portion of service provider network (e.g., a cable network). A user may generally access the network at a “hotspot,” a physical location at which the user may obtain access by connecting to modems, routers, APs, etc. that are within wireless range.

One such technology that enables a user to engage in wireless communication (e.g., via services provided through the cable network operator) is Wi-Fi® (IEEE Std. 802.11), which has become a ubiquitously accepted standard for wireless networking in consumer electronics. Wi-Fi allows client devices to gain convenient high-speed access to networks (e.g., wireless local area networks (WLANs)) via one or more access points.

Commercially, Wi-Fi is able to provide services to a group of users within a venue or premises such as within a trusted home or business environment, or outside, e.g., cafes, hotels, business centers, restaurants, and other public areas. A typical Wi-Fi network setup may include the user's client device in wireless communication with an AP (and/or a modem connected to the AP) that are in communication with the backend, where the client device must be within a certain range that allows the client device to detect the signal from the AP and conduct communication with the AP.

Another wireless technology in widespread use is Long-Term Evolution standard (also colloquially referred to as “LTE,” “4G,” “LTE Advanced,” among others). An LTE network is powered by an Evolved Packet Core (“EPC”), an Internet Protocol (IP)-based network architecture and eNodeB—Evolved NodeB or E-UTRAN node which part of the Radio Access Network (RAN), capable of providing high-speed wireless data communication services to many wireless-enabled devices of users with a wide coverage area.

Currently, most consumer devices include multi-RAT capability; e.g.; the capability to access multiple different RATs, whether simultaneously, or in a “fail over” manner (such as via a wireless connection manager process running on the device). For example, a smartphone may be enabled for LTE data access, but when unavailable, utilize one or more Wi-Fi technologies (e.g., 802.11g/n/ac) for data communications.

The capabilities of different RATs (such as LTE and Wi-Fi) can be very different, including regarding establishment of wireless service to a given client device. For example, there is a disparity between the signal strength threshold for initializing a connection via Wi-Fi vs. LTE (including LTE-U and LTE-LAA). As a brief aside, LTE-U enables data communication via LTE in an unlicensed spectrum (e.g., 5 GHz) to provide additional radio spectrum for data transmission (e.g., to compensate for overflow traffic). LTE-LAA uses carrier aggregation to combine LTE in unlicensed spectrum (e.g., 5 GHz) with the licensed band.

Typical levels of signal strength required for LTE-U or LTE-LAA service are approximately −80 to −84 dBm. In comparison, Wi-Fi can be detected by a client device based on a signal strength of approximately −72 to −80 dBm, i.e., a higher (i.e., less sensitive) detection threshold. Moreover, the mechanisms for connecting to various types of RATs may vary in their protocol, including what is colloquially referred to as “politeness.” For instance, a Wi-Fi connection protocol may be structured to be unobtrusive when in the presence of other RATs such that the other RATs will preferentially connect before Wi-Fi. This is particularly true where the RF signal strength levels for the various RATs are generally of similar magnitude (i.e., such that no particular RAT “stands out”).

When a client device is in an environment where coexisting LTE and Wi-Fi services are available for connection to a network (e.g., public venues), the client device may automatically and/or persistently prioritize a connection to LTE providers despite the presence of nearby existing Wi-Fi equipment (e.g., an AP providing network connectivity via Wi-Fi). Specifically, if LTE and Wi-Fi services are available on the same operating frequency band (e.g., 5 GHz), the client device may connect via LTE by virtue of its relatively aggressive connection mechanism, even when it is not the intention of the user. For instance, the user may be under a service contract with one or more LTE carriers that may charge access fees or count LTE “data” consumption against a limited quota, and hence desire to use Wi-Fi (and its corresponding unlimited data) when at all possible. Other instances where Wi-Fi is required or heavily preferred may include, inter alia, (i) for conservation of battery power at low reserves, (ii) when consuming data services over a comparatively long period of time (e.g., voice-over-IP (VoIP) calls, video chats, or large data transfers), and/or (iii) for access to services particular to a service provider of which the user is a subscriber (including for use of a software application specifically designed for use by the service provider). The user may also prefer a consistent connection to avoid discontinuities associated with handovers between LTE nodes (cell towers, small cells, eNBs (evolved NodeBs), base stations, etc.). Moreover, when LTE or other RAT connectivity is prioritized by the user's mobile devices, some service providers (e.g., cable network operators) cannot provide services to their existing subscribers or capture new ad hoc users as effectively within public venues as compared to use of Wi-Fi.

Therefore, solutions are needed to, inter alia, allow Wi-Fi or other WLAN RAT service providers to compete effectively against LTE or other more “aggressive” RATs in such coexistence environments. Specifically, what are needed are means for dynamically controlling access to co-existing RATs such that user and/or service provider preferences and functionality are optimized.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure addresses the foregoing needs by providing, inter alia, methods and apparatus for dynamically controlling connections to coexisting radio access networks, including the implementation of situation- and/or location-specific connection rules.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for enabling wireless connectivity to at least one client device is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: detecting a first type of wireless signal, the detecting comprising receiving data from a first radio frequency (RF) receiver apparatus; modifying one or more parameters associated with an interface apparatus utilizing a second type of wireless signal and based at least in part on the data from the first RF receiver apparatus; and transmitting data relating to the modified one or more parameters to the interface apparatus, the transmitted data enabling the interface apparatus to adjust one or more operational characteristics thereof with respect to the second type of wireless signal.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a controller apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the controller apparatus is configured for use within a managed content delivery network, and to manage wireless connectivity to a wireless-enabled device, and includes: a processor apparatus; and a storage apparatus in data communication with the processor apparatus and having a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, the storage medium comprising at least one computer program having a plurality of instructions stored thereon. In one variant, the plurality of instructions are configured to, when executed by the processor apparatus, cause the controller apparatus to: detect a concurrent deployment of a first radio protocol and a second radio protocol within at least a prescribed area, the detection being based at least on data received from a first downstream network apparatus; obtain data representative of a configuration of an wireless access point (AP) located within the prescribed area, the data comprising data descriptive of a plurality of parameters associated with a wireless interface of the wireless AP utilizing the first radio protocol; modify the data representative of the configuration, the modification comprising an update of at least one of the plurality of parameters; and transmit the modified data representative of the configuration to the wireless AP, the modified data enabling the wireless AP to modify at least one operational characteristic associated with the wireless interface based on the updated at least one parameter.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided.

In a further aspect, a networked system configured to provide wireless LAN (WLAN) connectivity to at least one wireless-enabled device located within a venue is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes: scan apparatus configured to detect at least first radio frequency (RF) signals associated with a first type of wireless technology; and configure data for transmission to a wireless contention management process, the data comprising information related to the at least first RF signals; and a controller apparatus in network data communication with the scan apparatus, the controller apparatus comprising the wireless contention management process and configured to: receive the configured data and provide the received configured data to the contention management process; access configuration data relating to at least one wireless access point (AP) within the WLAN; utilize the contention management process to modify the accessed configuration data contained based at least on the configured data; transmit the modified configuration data to the at least one wireless access point; and cause the at least one wireless access point to adjust at least one connectivity parameter associated with a WLAN interface of the at least one access point based on the modified configuration data received from the controller apparatus.

In yet another aspect, a method of preferentially causing wireless LAN (WLAN) access for a multi-mode mobile client device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the client device has both a WLAN interface and a cellular data interface, and a connection management process configured to select one of the WLAN interface and the cellular data interface, and the method includes: wirelessly receiving data at the client device, the received data configured to enable the client device to adjust one or more parameters associated with the WLAN interface, the adjustment to compensate for detection of operation of non-WLAN radio access technology within an area within which the client device is currently located; determining, using at least the connection management process, that the cellular data interface is operating at a level of performance greater than that of the WLAN interface; based at least on the determining, adjusting the one or more parameters associated with the WLAN interface based at least on the received data; thereafter evaluating, using at least the connection management process, at least one aspect of the performance of the WLAN interface: and based at least on the evaluating, selecting the WLAN interface for data communications.

In another aspect, methods of characterizing one or more RAT interference sources is disclosed. In one embodiment, the characterization comprises detection and decoding of one or more broadcast channels associated with the one or more RATs, and calculating RF-related properties based on the decoded signals and knowledge of path loss data for the channels.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, business methods for enabling an alternative type of wireless connectivity to one or more user devices are provided.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, business methods for collecting data usage information via wireless connectivity provided to one or more user devices are provided.

These and other aspects shall become apparent when considered in light of the disclosure provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary hybrid fiber network configuration useful with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1a is a functional block diagram illustrating one exemplary network headend configuration useful with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a functional block diagram illustrating one exemplary local service node configuration useful with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1c is a functional block diagram illustrating one exemplary broadcast switched architecture (BSA) network useful with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1d is a functional block diagram illustrating one exemplary packetized content delivery network architecture useful with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a wireless network infrastructure useful with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2a is a functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the infrastructure of FIG. 2, in the context of cable network architecture providing WLAN services to a customer premises such as an enterprise or venue.

FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of a typical implementation of a prior art Wi-Fi back-off mechanism.

FIG. 3a is a graphical representation of a typical prior art network scenario in which only Wi-Fi connectivity is available.

FIG. 3b is a graphical representation of a typical prior art coexistence scenario in which Wi-Fi connectivity and LTE-U or LTE-LAA connectivity are available.

FIG. 4 is a high-level graphical representation of the operation of the exemplary network architecture of FIG. 2, in which the Wi-Fi connection is controlled within a venue or environment deploying coexisting Wi-Fi and LTE-U or LTE-LAA services.

FIG. 5 is logical flow diagram of an exemplary generalized method for enabling connectivity via a wireless signal to at least one client device in a coexistence environment according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 5a is logical flow diagram of an exemplary implementation of the generalized method for enabling connectivity of FIG. 5.

FIG. 5b is logical flow diagram of another exemplary implementation of the generalized method for enabling connectivity of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a ladder diagram illustrating an exemplary communication flow for configuring new Wi-Fi connectivity settings with an exemplary Coexistence Controller (CC) in accordance with one embodiment of the method of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary coexistence controller (CC) apparatus useful with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary background radio scanner useful with various embodiments of the present disclosure

All figures © Copyright 2017 Time Warner Cable Enterprises, LLC. All rights reserved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout.

As used herein, the term “access point” refers generally and without limitation to a network node which enables communication between a user or client device and another entity within a network, such as for example a Wi-Fi AP, or a Wi-Fi-Direct enabled client or other device acting as a Group Owner (GO).

As used herein, the term “application” (or “app”) refers generally and without limitation to a unit of executable software that implements a certain functionality or theme. The themes of applications vary broadly across any number of disciplines and functions (such as on-demand content management, e-commerce transactions, brokerage transactions, home entertainment, calculator etc.), and one application may have more than one theme. The unit of executable software generally runs in a predetermined environment; for example, the unit could include a downloadable Java Xlet™ that runs within the JavaTV™ environment.

As used herein, the terms “client device” or “user device” include, but are not limited to, set-top boxes (e.g., DSTBs), gateways, modems, personal computers (PCs), and minicomputers, whether desktop, laptop, or otherwise, and mobile devices such as handheld computers, PDAs, personal media devices (PMDs), tablets, “phablets”, smartphones, and vehicle infotainment systems or portions thereof.

As used herein, the term “codec” refers to a video, audio, or other data coding and/or decoding algorithm, process or apparatus including, without limitation, those of the MPEG (e.g., MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4/H.264, H.265, etc.), Real (RealVideo, etc.), AC-3 (audio), DiVX, XViD/ViDX, Windows Media Video (e.g., WMV 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11), ATI Video codec, or VC-1 (SMPTE standard 421M) families.

As used herein, the term “computer program” or “software” is meant to include any sequence or human or machine cognizable steps which perform a function. Such program may be rendered in virtually any programming language or environment including, for example, C/C++, Fortran, COBOL, PASCAL, assembly language, markup languages (e.g., HTML, SGML, XML, VoXML), and the like, as well as object-oriented environments such as the Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA), Java™ (including J2ME, Java Beans, etc.) and the like.

As used herein, the term “DOCSIS” refers to any of the existing or planned variants of the Data Over Cable Services Interface Specification, including for example DOCSIS versions 1.0, 1.1, 2.0, 3.0 and 3.1.

As used herein, the term “headend” or “backend” refers generally to a networked system controlled by an operator (e.g., an MSO) that distributes programming to MSO clientele using client devices. Such programming may include literally any information source/receiver including, inter alia, free-to-air TV channels, pay TV channels, interactive TV, over-the-top services, streaming services, and the Internet.

As used herein, the terms “Internet” and “internet” are used interchangeably to refer to inter-networks including, without limitation, the Internet. Other common examples include but are not limited to: a network of external servers, “cloud” entities (such as memory or storage not local to a device, storage generally accessible at any time via a network connection, and the like), service nodes, access points, controller devices, client devices, etc.

As used herein, the term “LTE” refers to, without limitation and as applicable, any of the variants of the Long-Term Evolution wireless communication standard, including LTE-U (Long Term Evolution in unlicensed spectrum), LTE-LAA (Long Term Evolution, Licensed Assisted Access), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), 4G LTE, WiMAX, and other wireless data standards, including GSM, UMTS, CDMA2000, etc. (as applicable).

As used herein, the term “memory” includes any type of integrated circuit or other storage device adapted for storing digital data including, without limitation, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, DRAM, SDRAM, DDR/2 SDRAM, EDO/FPMS, RLDRAM, SRAM, “flash” memory (e.g., NAND/NOR), 3D memory, and PSRAM.

As used herein, the terms “microprocessor” and “processor” or “digital processor” are meant generally to include all types of digital processing devices including, without limitation, digital signal processors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computers (RISC), general-purpose (CISC) processors, microprocessors, gate arrays (e.g., FPGAs), PLDs, reconfigurable computer fabrics (RCFs), array processors, secure microprocessors, and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Such digital processors may be contained on a single unitary IC die, or distributed across multiple components.

As used herein, the terms “MSO” or “multiple systems operator” refer to a cable, satellite, or terrestrial network provider having infrastructure required to deliver services including programming and data over those mediums.

As used herein, the terms “network” and “bearer network” refer generally to any type of telecommunications or data network including, without limitation, hybrid fiber coax (HFC) networks, satellite networks, telco networks, and data networks (including MANs, WANs, LANs, WLANs, internets, and intranets). Such networks or portions thereof may utilize any one or more different topologies (e.g., ring, bus, star, loop, etc.), transmission media (e.g., wired/RF cable, RF wireless, millimeter wave, optical, etc.) and/or communications or networking protocols (e.g., SONET, DOCSIS, IEEE Std. 802.3, ATM, X.25, Frame Relay, 3GPP, 3GPP2, WAP, SIP, UDP, FTP, RTP/RTCP, H.323, etc.).

As used herein, the term “network interface” refers to any signal or data interface with a component or network including, without limitation, those of the FireWire (e.g., FW400, FW800, etc.), USB (e.g., USB 2.0, 3.0. OTG), Ethernet (e.g., 10/100, 10/100/1000 (Gigabit Ethernet), 10-Gig-E, etc.), MoCA, Coaxsys (e.g., TVnet™), radio frequency tuner (e.g., in-band or OOB, cable modem, etc.), LTE/LTE-A, Wi-Fi (802.11), WiMAX (802.16), Z-wave, PAN (e.g., 802.15), or power line carrier (PLC) families.

As used herein, the term “QAM” refers to modulation schemes used for sending signals over e.g., cable or other networks. Such modulation scheme might use any constellation level (e.g. QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM, 256-QAM, etc.) depending on details of a network. A QAM may also refer to a physical channel modulated according to the schemes.

As used herein, the term “server” refers to any computerized component, system or entity regardless of form which is adapted to provide data, files, applications, content, or other services to one or more other devices or entities on a computer network.

As used herein, the term “storage” refers to without limitation computer hard drives, DVR device, memory, RAID devices or arrays, optical media (e.g., CD-ROMs, Laserdiscs, Blu-Ray, etc.), or any other devices or media capable of storing content or other information.

As used herein, the term “Wi-Fi” refers to, without limitation and as applicable, any of the variants of IEEE Std. 802.11 or related standards including 802.11 a/b/g/n/s/v/ac or 802.11-2012/2013, as well as Wi-Fi Direct (including inter alia, the “Wi-Fi Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Specification”, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

As used herein, the term “wireless” means any wireless signal, data, communication, or other interface including without limitation Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G (3GPP/3GPP2), HSDPA/HSUPA, TDMA, CDMA (e.g., IS-95A, WCDMA, etc.), FHSS, DSSS, GSM, PAN/802.15, WiMAX (802.16), 802.20, Zigbee®, Z-wave, narrowband/FDMA, OFDM, PCS/DCS, LTE/LTE-A/LTE-U/LTE-LAA, analog cellular, CDPD, satellite systems, millimeter wave or microwave systems, acoustic, and infrared (i.e., IrDA).

Overview

A connection management mechanism for a network access technology may be inadequate in the presence of another competing network access technology that employs a more aggressive connection mechanism, especially within the context of a public venue or consumer premises environment. The present disclosure provides, inter alia, an “intelligent” network controller and associated architecture that enables connectivity to a given network while coexisting with another competing or even interfering network access technology.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a wireless local area network (WLAN) associated with a managed content delivery network is configured to provide an “aggressive” or preferential network connectivity (e.g., to the Internet or intranets) to client devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops, tablets, or smartwatches) via one or more wireless access points. The wireless access points may include for instance Wi-Fi access points (APs) within a given venue or premises, the Wi-Fi APs being configured to provide enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity to client devices within range of the APs, while coexisting with another network access technology such as LTE-U or LTE-LAA (the latter providing service via cellular towers, small cells, etc.) nearby or within the same venue.

Wi-Fi protocols typically do not allow an AP or other device to encroach on a channel when there may be another network attempting to use the channel. The present disclosure describes methods, apparatus and systems for prioritizing accesses between networks via a change in connection mechanisms of one of the networks. In one implementation, operation of WLAN access points and/or client devices are modified in order to provide a desired connection “profile” and procedure for one of the network access technologies (e.g., the Wi-Fi WLAN) so as to achieve a desired result, the latter which may be e.g., a more aggressive WLAN connection protocol in certain prescribed circumstances.

In one exemplary configuration, a dedicated background scanner device located in the venue continually scans for signals from multiple radio access technologies (RATs), such as Wi-Fi, LTE-U and LTE-LAA occupying the same frequency band and/or channel(s). The background scanner sends reports to a backend controller (e.g., a Coexistence Controller (CC)) that manages the Wi-Fi APs. The controller is in data communication with a backend connection manager (CM) provisioning server, as well as a database that stores configuration files associated with known APs. The CM server sends (e.g., “pushes”) to the controller, or the controller may retrieve or pull from the CM server or database(s), configuration data associated with a WLAN AP that is serving client devices and that may be excluded from providing such service by virtue of a more aggressive connection mechanism by another RAT, e.g., LTE-U or LTE-LAA.

In one implementation, the CC modifies one or more connectivity parameters or characteristics for the AP of the affected RAT (e.g., Wi-Fi), such as transmit power (e.g., increase signal strength), energy detection (ED) threshold (e.g., decrease to −80 dBm), frequency or channel used (e.g., switch from 5 GHz to another frequency), beamform settings, physical configuration of antennas, modulation scheme, handover criteria, etc. The CC then sends the modified transmit parameters (contained in a data structure such as a configuration file) to the AP, thereby causing the modified parameters to be implemented at the AP and/or client devices. Modified parameters may later be disabled or overridden with original or yet other configurations.

The solutions provided by the exemplary embodiments advantageously selectively sidestep the typical back-off mechanism for cautious protocols (e.g., those of Wi-Fi), and allow service providers (such as MSO networks) and their users or subscribers in the venue to, inter alia, utilize the services with sufficient availability and bandwidth, obtain convenient access to subscribed media content, and save battery power (e.g., by obviating the need to constantly seek connections or switching networks).

A service provider may also capture new ad hoc users by offering a more level or accessible opportunity to utilize its services among competing RATs.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

Exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and methods of the present disclosure are now described in detail. While these exemplary embodiments are described in the context of the previously mentioned WLANs associated with a managed network (e.g., hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable architecture having a multiple systems operator (MSO), digital networking capability, IP delivery capability, and a plurality of client devices), the general principles and advantages of the disclosure may be extended to other types of radio access technologies (“RATs”), networks and architectures that are configured to deliver digital data (e.g., text, images, games, software applications, video and/or audio). Such other networks or architectures may be broadband, narrowband, or otherwise, the following therefore being merely exemplary in nature.

It will also be appreciated that while described generally in the context of a network providing service to a customer or consumer or end user (i.e., within a prescribed venue, or other type of premises), the present disclosure may be readily adapted to other types of environments including, e.g., outdoors, commercial/retail, or enterprise domain (e.g., businesses), and government/military applications. Myriad other applications are possible.

Also, while certain aspects are described primarily in the context of the well-known Internet Protocol (described in, inter alia, Internet Protocol DARPA Internet Program Protocol Specification, IETF RCF 791 (September 1981) and Deering et al., Internet Protocol, Version 6 (IPv6) Specification, IETF RFC 2460 (December 1998), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), it will be appreciated that the present disclosure may utilize other types of protocols (and in fact bearer networks to include other internets and intranets) to implement the described functionality.

Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will immediately be recognized by persons of ordinary skill in the art with reference to the attached drawings and detailed description of exemplary embodiments as given below.

Service Provider Network—

FIG. 1 illustrates a typical service provider network configuration useful with the features of the Wi-Fi-based wireless network(s) described herein. This service provider network 100 is used in one embodiment of the disclosure to provide backbone and Internet access from the service provider's wireless access points (e.g., Wi-Fi APs or base stations operated or maintained by the service provider or its customers/subscribers), one or more cable modems (CMs) in data communication therewith, or even third party access points accessible to the service provider via, e.g., an interposed network such as the Internet (e.g., with appropriate permissions from the access point owner/operator/user).

As opposed to an unmanaged network, the managed service-provider network of FIG. 1 advantageously allows, inter alia, control and management of a given user's access (such user which may be a network subscriber, or merely an incidental/opportunistic user of the service) via the wireless access point(s), including imposition and/or reconfiguration of various access “rules” or other configurations applied to the wireless access points. For example, the service provider network 100 allows components at the venue of interest (e.g., Wi-Fi APs and any supporting infrastructure such as routers, switches, etc.) to be remotely reconfigured by the network MSO, based on e.g., prevailing operational conditions in the network, changes in user population and/or makeup of users at the venue, business models (e.g., to maximize profitability or provide other benefits such as enhanced user experience, as described infra), etc.

In certain embodiments, the service provider network also advantageously permits the aggregation and/or analysis of subscriber- or account-specific data (including inter alia, particular mobile devices associated with such subscriber or accounts) as part of the provision of services to users under the exemplary delivery models described herein. As but one example, device specific IDs (e.g., MAC address or the like) can be cross-correlated to MSO subscriber data maintained at e.g., the network headend(s) so as to permit or at least facilitate, among other things, (i) user authentication; (ii) correlation of aspects of the event or venue to particular subscriber demographics, such as for delivery of targeted advertising; and (iii) determination of subscription level, and hence subscriber privileges and access to content/features. Moreover, device profiles for particular user devices can be maintained by the MSO, such that the MSO (or its automated proxy processes) can model the user device for wireless capabilities.

The wireless access points (see discussion of FIG. 1a infra) disposed at the service location(s) (e.g., venue(s) of interest) can be coupled to the bearer managed network (FIG. 1) via, e.g., a cable modem termination system (CMTS) and associated local DOCSIS cable modem (CM), a wireless bearer medium (e.g., an 802.16 WiMAX system), a fiber-based system such as FiOS or similar, a third-party medium which the managed network operator has access to (which may include any of the foregoing), or yet other means.

Advantageously, the service provider network 100 also allows components at the service location (e.g., Wi-Fi APs and any supporting infrastructure such as routers, switches, etc.) to be remotely reconfigured by the network MSO, based on, e.g., prevailing operational conditions in the network, changes in user population and/or makeup of users at the service location, business models (e.g., to maximize profitability), etc. In certain embodiments, the service provider network also advantageously permits the aggregation and/or analysis of subscriber- or account-specific data (including inter alia, particular mobile devices associated with such subscriber or accounts) as part of the provision of services to users under the exemplary delivery models described herein.

The various components of the exemplary embodiment of the network 100 include (i) one or more data and application origination sources 102; (ii) one or more content sources 103, (iii) one or more application distribution servers 104; (iv) one or more video-on-demand (VOD) servers 105, (v) client devices 106, (vi) one or more routers 108, (vii) one or more wireless access point controllers 110 (may be placed more locally as shown or in the headend or “core” portion of network), (viii) one or more cable modems 112, and/or (ix) one or more access points 114 (which may or may not include embedded cable modems 113 as shown). The application server(s) 104, VOD servers 105 and client device(s) 106 are connected via a bearer (e.g., HFC) network 101. A simple architecture comprising one of each of certain components 102, 103, 104, 105, 108, 110 is shown in FIG. 1 for simplicity, although it will be recognized that comparable architectures with multiple origination sources, distribution servers, VOD servers, controllers, and/or client devices (as well as different network topologies) may be utilized consistent with the present disclosure. For example, the headend architecture of FIG. 1a (described in greater detail below), or others, may be used.

It is also noted that cable network architecture is typically a “tree-and-branch” structure, and hence multiple tiered APs may be linked to each other or cascaded via such structure.

FIG. 1a shows one exemplary embodiment of a headend architecture. As shown in FIG. 1a , the headend architecture 150 comprises typical headend components and services including billing module 152, subscriber management system (SMS) and client configuration management module 154, cable modem termination system (CMTS) and OOB system 156, as well as LAN(s) 158, 160 placing the various components in data communication with one another. It will be appreciated that while a bar or bus LAN topology is illustrated, any number of other arrangements as previously referenced (e.g., ring, star, etc.) may be used consistent with the disclosure. It will also be appreciated that the headend configuration depicted in FIG. 1a is high-level, conceptual architecture, and that each MSO may have multiple headends deployed using custom architectures.

The exemplary architecture 150 of FIG. 1a further includes a conditional access system (CAS) 157 and a multiplexer-encrypter-modulator (MEM) 162 coupled to the HFC network 101 adapted to process or condition content for transmission over the network. The distribution servers 164 are coupled to the LAN 160, which provides access to the MEM 162 and network 101 via one or more file servers 170. The VOD servers 105 are coupled to the LAN 160 as well, although other architectures may be employed (such as for example where the VOD servers are associated with a core switching device such as an 802.3z Gigabit Ethernet device). As previously described, information is carried across multiple channels. Thus, the headend must be adapted to acquire the information for the carried channels from various sources. Typically, the channels being delivered from the headend 150 to the client devices 106 (“downstream”) are multiplexed together in the headend, as previously described and sent to neighborhood hubs (as shown in the exemplary scheme of FIG. 1B) via a variety of interposed network components.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the network 101 of FIGS. 1 and 1 a comprises a fiber/coax arrangement wherein the output of the MEM 162 of FIG. 1a is transferred to the optical domain (such as via an optical transceiver 177 at the headend or further downstream). The optical domain signals are then distributed to a fiber node 178, which further distributes the signals over a distribution network 180 to a plurality of local servicing nodes 182. This provides an effective 1:N expansion of the network at the local service end. It will be appreciated that the CPE 106 shown in FIG. 1B may in fact comprise CMTS or other devices such as the embedded cable modem AP 206, or wireless APs 202, 204, 206, 208 disposed within one or more venues, as described subsequently herein with respect to FIGS. 2-2 a.

FIG. 1c illustrates an exemplary “switched” network architecture. Specifically, the headend 150 contains switched broadcast control 190 and media path functions 192; these element cooperating to control and feed, respectively, downstream or edge switching devices 194 at the hub site which are used to selectively switch broadcast streams to various service groups. Broadcast switched architecture (BSA) media path 192 may include a staging processor 195, source programs, and bulk encryption in communication with a switch 275. A BSA server 196 is also disposed at the hub site, and implements functions related to switching and bandwidth conservation (in conjunction with a management entity 198 disposed at the headend). An optical transport ring 197 is utilized to distribute the dense wave-division multiplexed (DWDM) optical signals to each hub in an efficient fashion.

In addition to “broadcast” content (e.g., video programming), the systems of FIGS. 1a and 1c (and 1 d discussed below) also deliver Internet data services using Internet Protocol (IP), although other protocols and transport mechanisms of the type well known in the digital communication art may be substituted. One exemplary delivery paradigm comprises delivering MPEG-based video content, with the video transported to user client devices (including IP-based STBs or IP-enabled consumer devices) over the aforementioned DOCSIS channels comprising MPEG (or other video codec such as H.264 or AVC) over IP over MPEG. That is, the higher layer MPEG- or other encoded content is encapsulated using an IP protocol, which then utilizes an MPEG packetization of the type well known in the art for delivery over the RF channels. In this fashion, a parallel delivery mode to the normal broadcast delivery exists, i.e., delivery of video content both over traditional downstream QAMs to the tuner of the user's STB or other receiver device for viewing on the television, and also as packetized IP data over the DOCSIS QAMs to the user's client device or other IP-enabled device via the user's cable modem. Delivery in such packetized modes may be unicast, multicast, or broadcast.

Referring again to FIG. 1c , the IP packets associated with Internet services are received by the edge switch 194, and in one embodiment forwarded to the cable modem termination system (CMTS) 199. The CMTS examines the packets, and forwards packets intended for the local network to the edge switch 194. Other packets are discarded or routed to another component. As an aside, a cable modem is used to interface with a network counterpart (e.g., CMTS) so as to permit two-way broadband data service between the network and users within a given service group, such service which may be symmetric or asymmetric as desired (e.g., downstream bandwidth/capabilities/configurations may or may not be different than those of the upstream).

The edge switch 194 forwards the packets received from the CMTS 199 to the QAM modulator, which transmits the packets on one or more physical (QAM-modulated RF) channels to the client devices. The IP packets are typically transmitted on RF channels (e.g., DOCSIS QAMs) that are different that the RF channels used for the broadcast video and audio programming, although this is not a requirement. The client devices 106 are each configured to monitor the particular assigned RF channel (such as via a port or socket ID/address, or other such mechanism) for IP packets intended for the subscriber premises/address that they serve. For example, in one embodiment, a business customer premises obtains its Internet access (such as for a connected Wi-Fi AP) via a DOCSIS cable modem or other device capable of utilizing the cable “drop” to the premises (e.g., a premises gateway, etc.).

While the foregoing network architectures described herein can (and in fact do) carry packetized content (e.g., IP over MPEG for high-speed data or Internet TV, MPEG2 packet content over QAM for MPTS, etc.), they are often not optimized for such delivery. Hence, in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure, a “packet optimized” delivery network is used for carriage of the packet content (e.g., Internet data, IPTV content, etc.). FIG. 1d illustrates one exemplary implementation of such a network, in the context of a 3GPP IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) network with common control plane and service delivery platform (SDP), as described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/764,746 filed Apr. 21, 2010 and entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PACKETIZED CONTENT DELIVERY OVER A CONTENT DELIVERY NETWORK”, which is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0103374 of the same title, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Such a network provides, inter alia, significant enhancements in terms of common control of different services, implementation and management of content delivery sessions according to unicast or multicast models, etc.; however, it is appreciated that the various features of the present disclosure are in no way limited to this or any of the other foregoing architectures.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing MSO or managed network can advantageously be leveraged for easy installation of the various APs (and/or any lower-level “children APs” as described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/002,232 entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR WI-FI SERVICES IN MOVING VEHICLES” and filed Jan. 20, 2016, incorporated supra) within a geographic region. Consider, for example, a MSO network that is already pervasive throughout a given area (i.e., the MSO has numerous customers, both business and residential and otherwise); in such networks, the MSO already has significant infrastructure deployed, at a very high level of granularity. Hence, if an AP needs to be placed at a given location in order to effect the coverage/operation for the Wi-Fi network described herein (e.g., for an impromptu concert or event held at a location not associated with any particular venue structure), the MSO can easily “tap off” the existing infrastructure in that area to enable the ad hoc AP placement. This may take the form of e.g., placement of an AP coincident with a given customer's extant equipment, and/or placement of new equipment that taps off a local service node.

It is also contemplated that the service provider may utilize or “piggyback” off the existing infrastructure or infrastructure of other service providers, utilities, etc. For instance, a third party service provider may have a high-bandwidth backhaul “drop” near a location or venue desired by the MSO; the MSO can then lease, pay, rent, etc. that third party for temporary use of the drop (e.g., for the duration of the event). Similarly, traffic signal poles, lighting, bridges, tunnels, etc. all contain a wide variety of cabling, conduits, and other infrastructure which the (host) MSO could make use of so as to obviate having to perform a new installation (and all of the attendant costs and delays thereof).

Network addressing in such “composite” or “parent/child” scenarios may assign each node of a network with an address that is unique to that network; the address can be used to communicate (directly via peer-to-peer communications, or indirectly via a series of “hops”) with the corresponding device. In more complex networks, multiple layers of indirection may be used to assist in address exhaustion (e.g., one address is logically divided into another range of network addresses). Common examples of network routing protocols include: Internet Protocol (IP), Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX), and OSI-based network technologies (e.g., Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET), Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH), and Frame Relay.

As is described in further detail infra, a dedicated AP may be configured to, e.g., scan for and detect background signals associated with one or more RATs (Wi-Fi, LTE-U, LTE-LAA, etc.) and report information and statistics to the backend, but not necessarily transmit data to client devices. Such a dedicated AP may be newly installed or deployed in the field, a replacement of extant equipment at a convenient node, and/or repurposed from extant equipment, so as to enable the MSO to piggyback off existing infrastructure as described above.

Even with the myriad equipment implementations allowing an end user to access WLAN services (e.g., via APs, modems, intermediate entities, towers), some telecommunications providers have set up LTE services that are broadly available, including significant coverage in most areas of the developed world. In certain cases, this setup, in combination with LTE's comparatively aggressive connection mechanism that is dependent on a relatively lower signal detection threshold, causes client devices to transmit data over LTE rather than Wi-Fi in the same frequency band (e.g., 5 GHz), particularly in public venues without a trusted AP (e.g., a known home or office modem). This results in the aforementioned problems with respect to LTE prioritization; i.e., even when WLAN services are available and more desirable for a particular use case, the user equipment is “forced” into using LTE data, thereby potentially invoking additional costs, battery consumption, and other undesired effects.

Hence, given the desire for constant access to the Internet by consumers, current mechanisms for arbitrating between RATs (e.g., Wi-Fi and LTE-U/LTE-LAA) present challenges to the MSO (or dedicated portions thereof, such as AP controller, CMTS, etc.) to optimize its services to client devices. The present disclosure addresses these challenges by selectively controlling access to those RATs based at least in part on functionality obtained from a backend entity (e.g., a controller apparatus), as described in greater detail below.

Wireless Services Architecture—

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a network architecture 200 useful in implementing the wireless RAT co-existence methods of the present disclosure. As used in the present context, the term “users” may include without limitation end users (e.g., individuals, whether subscribers of the MSO network or not), venue operators, third party service providers, or even entities within the MSO itself (e.g., a particular department, system or processing entity).

As shown, the architecture generally includes a networked (i.e., “cloud” based) provisioning server 201 (locally resident with a co-existence controller 210, or remotely at the backend or headend of the system), one or more access points 202, 204, 206, 208 in data communication with the coexistence controller (CC) 210 (e.g., via existing network architectures including any wired or wireless connection), as well as any number of client devices 212 (smartphones, laptops, tablets, watches, vehicles, etc.) which may or may not be within range of an AP that is served by the coexistence controller 210. The client devices may also have different capabilities (e.g., as “nodes” of the network themselves, as described in greater detail infra).

A client device database 203 is also provided, wherein the client management provisioning server 201 can access and store data relating to, inter alia: (i) individual client devices, such as MAC address or other specific identifying information, (ii) any associated subscriber accounts or records, (iii) the WLAN configuration of the client, (e.g., supported Wi-Fi variants, MCS, MIMO capability, etc.), and (iv) the multi-RAT provisioning status of the particular client (e.g., whether the client has had the CM 221 installed, status of “pushed” configuration data to the installed CM, etc.).

Also included are one or more RF scanner devices 214, 216, 218 which, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein, help the coexistence controller (CC) 210 characterize the radio frequency spectrum and environment in which the APs operate, so as to enable selective client (and/or AP) configuration changes to enhance WLAN prioritization over competing RAT s.

An AP environment profile database 205 is also included in the architecture of FIG. 2, and is in communication with the CC 210 via e.g., a wired or wireless data interface. The AP DB 205 in the illustrated embodiment retains data relating to, among other things: (i) AP identification (e.g., MAC), (ii) AP location, (iii) association with parent or child nodes or networks (if any), (iv) association of an AP and one or more scanners, and (v) AP WLAN configuration and capabilities data.

In certain embodiments, each AP 202, 204, 206, 208 is located within and/or services one or more areas within one or more venues (e.g., a building, room, or plaza for commercial, corporate, academic purposes, and/or any other space suitable for Wi-Fi access). Each AP is configured to provide wireless network coverage within its coverage or connectivity range 220, 222, 224. For example, a venue may have a wireless modem installed within the entrance thereof for prospective customers to connect to, including those in the parking lot via inter alia, their Wi-Fi enabled vehicles or personal devices of operators thereof.

In one implementation, the system and methods of the present disclosure include determining a desired or optimal installation configuration for one or more wireless interface devices (e.g., APs) within a premises or venue, such as for example using the methods and apparatus described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/534,067 filed Nov. 5, 2014 and entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING AN OPTIMIZED WIRELESS INTERFACE INSTALLATION CONFIGURATION”. As disclosed therein, a network entity collects information relating to the type of services required, and generates a customer profile. The customer profile is then used to determine a number and type of wireless interface devices required. In one variant, a device chart is generated, which lists a plurality of combinations of categories of service and a respective plurality of device combinations needed to provide optimal (or at least to the desired level of) service thereto. The device chart is consulted to arrive at an appropriate installation work order, which is submitted for premises installation.

As discussed elsewhere herein, client devices may or may not be within the range serviced by AP(s). Additionally, some client devices may be within the range, and thus serviced by, only one AP (e.g., a client device 213 located is within the range 224 of only access point 208), whereas some other client devices may be within range of two or more APs within a designated area (e.g., client device 212 in may be serviced by one or both of two AP's 206, 208 as the APs' respective ranges 222, 224 overlap). In one variant, APs 202, 204 may be in communication (e.g., via direct connection by way of e.g., Gigabit Ethernet or other wired connection, or even over Wi-Fi (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct), as indicated by overlapping connectivity ranges and connection 226). In one such implementation, a sub-network is created by utilizing the techniques to extend and enhance existing networks described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/959,948 entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS NETWORK EXTENSIBILITY AND ENHANCEMENT” and filed Dec. 4, 2015, incorporated by reference in its entirety. The client device 211 may be serviced by AP 204, and thereby receive information stored at either or both APs 202, 204 even if AP 204 is out of range. The client device 211 may also be serviced in a peer-to-peer sub-network, such as by receiving beacons and/or connecting (e.g., tethering or acting as a relay) with another client device (not shown) serviced by AP 204.

In the exemplary embodiment, one or more APs 202, 204 are indirectly controlled by the controller 210 (i.e., via infrastructure of the MSO network), while one or more APs 206, 208 are connected to (and controlled at least in part by) the AP co-existence controller 210 directly. Various combinations of the foregoing direct and indirect control may be implemented within the architecture 200 of FIG. 2 as desired.

In some embodiments, APs of different types, such as directly controlled APs 206, 208 (i.e., children APs) and non-directly controlled APs 202, 204 may transmit data (e.g., notifications derived from the coexistence controller 210) to/from a client device 211, 212, 213 within their connectivity range as is described in e.g., co-pending and co-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/002,232, and that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/959,948, incorporated supra. The client devices 211, 212, 213 can be in range of an non-local or parent AP 204, 202 as well as a local or child AP 206, 208.

In an exemplary implementation, the client devices 211, 212, 213 each include a connection manager (CM) application computer program 221 operative to run on the client and, inter alia, enable the host client device to alter its WLAN configuration in order to enable more “competitive” or selective WLAN services in a multi-RAT environment, as described in greater detail below.

In one or more embodiments, the APs may also provide various information via an open-access network such as a wireless local area network (WLAN), such as that described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/063,314 filed Mar. 7, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC OPEN-ACCESS NETWORKS”, incorporated by reference in its entirety. In one embodiment, the information provided is contextually relevant to locations of respective users or devices receiving the information. As but one example, the information provided may relate to the availability of WLAN performance enhancement via use of an API; i.e., advertising to the client (via its indigenous protocol stack or communications capabilities), the ability to obtain better WLAN performance within inter alia, the venue or service area by accessing the designated API by which the provisioning server can authenticate the client device and install the CM application or module 221).

In one implementation, the information is provisioned by a network entity (for example, from a service provider network operator) and provided to one or more access points (APs) of the service provider network. The information is bit-stuffed into Wi-Fi beacon frames or other data structures that are broadcast by the APs to nearby client devices. A receiving client device extracts the information using a protocol embodied in the OS or extant software of the client, and may also initiate a dedicated wireless connection with the AP for e.g., transmission of the CM 221 as a download, or a URL or other network address where the client can obtain the CM 221 from the provisioning server 201.

Alternatively, if the CM 221 has already been installed on the given client device, the installed CM 221 can be used to extract data from the “stuffed” beacons relating to other functions of interest to the user.

Turning now to the coexistence controller 210, in one or more embodiments, controller 210 is configured to dynamically monitor RF conditions and performance information in the hosting environment via use of the APs 202, 204, 206, 208 and/or the scanner(s) 214, 216, 218.

FIG. 2a illustrates an exemplary cable network architecture for providing WLAN services within, e.g., a venue or other premises, which extends from user client devices within the venue to, inter alia, data centers. In the exemplary embodiment, the architecture 230 is divided into four main logical groups: an access network 232, a regional data center 234, a national data center 236, and a service platform 238. The access network 232 includes one or more APs (e.g., wireless APs 204, 206, 208) disposed within the venue, and end users 211 connected thereto via client devices. The regional data center 234 assists in providing services to the end users 241 by receiving, transmitting, and processing data between the access network 232 and the backbone 242 of the cable network. In one embodiment, the regional data center 234 is a local infrastructure that includes controllers (e.g., AP controllers), switches, policy servers and network address translators (NATs) in communication with the backbone 242. The regional data center 234 may be, for example, an intermediate data center on premises disposed away from the local APs and user premises (venue), and disposed within a larger infrastructure.

In the exemplary embodiment, the backbone 242 of the network enables data communication and services between the regional data center 234 and the national data center 236 via backhaul, and/or connection to the (public) Internet 111. In one implementation, the national data center 236 provides further top-level provisioning services to the regional data center 234 (e.g., load balancing, support of Trivial File Transfer Protocols (TFTP), Lightweight Directory Access Protocols (LDAP), and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocols (DHCP)), as well as providing the same to other data centers and/or access networks which may be part of the network operator's (e.g., MSO's) national-level architecture. The national data center 236 also houses in one embodiment more advanced backend apparatus (e.g., CMTS 199, AP controllers, Layer 3 switches, and servers for the provisioning services). In one embodiment, a separate service platform 238 may provide auxiliary services to the end users within the venue and subscribed to the MSO network provider, including access to mail exchange servers, remote storage, etc. Thus, it can be appreciated that myriad network nodes and entities, as well as connections there between, enable client devices (and ultimately end users 211) to maintain end-to-end connectivity across the network.

Extant WLAN and Multi-RAT Implementation Scenarios—

FIG. 3 illustrates a Wi-Fi back-off mechanism for collision avoidance as is typically implemented in prior art WLAN (e.g., Wi-Fi) technology applications. More directly, a Wi-Fi carrier-sense multiple access with collision avoidance (“CSMA/CA”) network access mechanism is shown. In particular, when a first network node or station receives a packet to be sent to another node or station, Wi-Fi (according to, e.g., the prevailing 802.11 standard under which the system operates) initiates physical carrier sensing and virtual carrier sensing mechanisms to determine whether the medium (e.g., a channel and/or frequency used by the Wi-Fi transceiver) is busy or occupied by other transmissions. Hence, two (2) mechanisms are specified to determine if the Wi-Fi channel is busy; physical and virtual carrier sensing.

Physical carrier sensing may be performed for instance by a physical layer (PHY) that includes a clear channel assessment (CCA) function. CCA may include carrier sense (CS) and energy detection (ED) functions. CS allows the first node (intending to send the packet) to determine a period of time during which the medium will be busy. ED may detect wireless signals other than those originated or relating to Wi-Fi compliant devices based on a detection threshold above that of Wi-Fi. Using one or more of these functions, the CCA may assess whether the medium is idle; if not, the physical layer logical process waits until the medium is clear.

Virtual carrier sensing may involve setting a network allocation vector (NAV), whose functions include a counter. The counter may indicate how long the node is to consider the medium busy. In other words, the node may make a “best guess” as to how long the medium will be busy before it may transmit the packet. When the NAV is zero, the medium is assumed to be idle, i.e., there are no other nodes attempting to transmit a packet. When NAV is not zero, it indicates that the medium is busy, e.g., the node is transmitting a packet. In some cases, virtual carrier sensing may limit the need for physical carrier sensing, such as to save power. For instance, the node station may go to sleep until NAV reaches zero, after which it wakes up to check whether the medium is busy or idle.

In addition to the conditions set by physical carrier sensing and virtual carrier sensing, the Wi-Fi CSMA/CA may impose further checks by a node to ensure that the channel on which the packet is to be sent is clear. That is, an “extra polite” wait duration is imposed to determine whether the medium is idle. If the channel is not clear, and transmission attempted, there is a “collision” with the signal of another node, and the first node waits a certain period of time (i.e., a back-off value or back-off factor) before re-attempting access of the medium. The period of time may be chosen to be e.g., a random time period, or a progressively increasing backoff period based on subsequent collisions. After the conditions for retry are met (e.g., NAV is zero), the node checks to see if the medium is idle at the time of the check. If not, another back-off value is set. In different implementations, this value may be set to be a smaller value, a larger value, the same value, another random value, or according to yet another scheme. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary decreasing back-off value scheme.

The foregoing process repeats until the channel is clear and the “extra polite” back-off conditions have been met, at which point the packet is ready for transmission. The packet is sent to the other receiving node, and a timer may be set for an ACK signal. If the ACK is received before the time expires, the transmission of the packet was successful. If not, transmission failed.

In contrast, LTE-U collision avoidance mechanisms are less cautious, and may dominate access to a channel in a situation where LTE-U coexists with Wi-Fi wireless access points (APs) (and/or other LTE-U nodes), e.g., via cell towers, small cells, femto cells, base stations, eNBs (evolved NodeBs). In theory, the LTE-U node should attempt to choose a free or idle channel (i.e., not in use) in which no other LTE-U node or Wi-Fi AP is operating; if a free channel is not found, the LTE-U node should apply duty cycle procedures that allow the node to share a channel with Wi-Fi and other LTE-U signals. In some circumstances, duty cycling parameters may be adapted to usage of other signals, e.g., in response to Wi-Fi usage.

However, in practice, a potential issue with such a coexistence scheme is that equipment vendors may not follow the “friendly” mechanisms as outlined above, causing LTE-U to benefit more; e.g., create more connections that are stronger and more persistent (and which favor macro-network operators) compared to Wi-Fi. For instance, LTE-U equipment may allow a non-standard duty cycle that favors LTE-U over neighboring wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi (which uses the aforementioned “extra polite” back-off mechanism as described supra). This may result in degraded performance and user experience with wireless services provided by Wi-Fi APs in the same venue or area, including low data throughput (rate) and high latency, as well as frequent “dropping” of Wi-Fi connections between the client and the AP.

Similarly, LTE-LAA in theory should follow a standard listen-before-talk (LBT) procedure that is similar to Wi-Fi's conservative design (i.e., one in which an access point is to hold off transmissions until the medium is clear and/or signal strength falls below a threshold, in addition to an extra back-off time period). However, in practice, LTE-LAA equipment vendors may also deviate from LBT algorithms, and use back-off windows that deviate from more cautious settings. In one example, LTE-LAA equipment (e.g., a small cell) may perform a non-zero back-off period. As such, if a Wi-Fi access point coexists (i.e., is deployed in the same general venue) with such a “modified” LTE-LAA small cell, a wireless device is more likely to obtain better access via LTE-LAA rather than Wi-Fi on the same frequency (e.g., 5 GHz), because transmission will occur immediately on LTE-LAA.

Other ways that LTE-U or LTE-LAA may dominate a shared channel on an unlicensed frequency spectrum include following an exponentially decreasing back-off (or a fixed back-off time window) that provides an advantage over a random back-off period employed by Wi-Fi's LBT procedure.

Hence, it can be readily seen that the “extra polite” collision-avoidance mechanism for Wi-Fi provides ample opportunity for other RATs using the same frequency spectrum (such as LTE-U and LTE-LAA) to occupy one or more channels that could have been used to transmit data via a Wi-Fi connection. Moreover, as previously mentioned, the signal detection threshold for Wi-Fi may be higher than that of other RATs, leading to a scenario in which the other RATs may more easily occupy the channels. See, for example, FIG. 3b as discussed infra.

FIG. 3a illustrates a typical network scenario in which only Wi-Fi connectivity is available. In this embodiment, a wireless-enabled client device (e.g., a Wi-Fi-compliant smartphone) at a venue is connected to a wireless access point 302 that provides wireless network service. In this use case, the client device is using channel 36, which is operating in a 5 GHz frequency band with a signal strength of −80 dBm. Where only Wi-Fi is available, the user may access the Internet and/or other networks as long as the client device is within the cell edge of the network; i.e., within a distance from the from the nearest AP (e.g., access point 302) at which the client device senses a minimal signal power level, i.e., approximately −80 dBm (decibel-milliwatts) or higher. A signal strength of approximately −85 dBm may be considered the minimum signal strength at which basic connectivity is possible. For consistently reliable packet delivery, however, a signal strength of −70 dBm or higher is ideal, which may be achieved by, e.g., moving the wireless device closer to the AP, or increasing the transmit power of the AP. Hence, the client device C1 as shown in FIG. 3a has achieved basic connectivity to the network with a minimal signal level, and may continue to receive Wi-Fi service unless the signal drops below approximately −80 dBm.

FIG. 3b illustrates a coexistence scenario in which Wi-Fi connectivity and LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA connectivity are available. In contrast to the scenario illustrated in FIG. 3a , performance of client device such as C1 may be negatively impacted due to the presence of other RATs, such as LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA deployed within range of the client device. For example, in the presence of a competing RAT, the connection to Wi-Fi may frequently disconnect, experience low data throughput rates, experience high latency, or fail to connect altogether. Any established Wi-Fi connections may see severe performance degradation and be rendered unusable for typical activities (e.g., Web browsing, voice-over-IP (VoIP) calls, video chats, file transfers, media streaming, content consumption). Notably, the negative impact on Wi-Fi connectivity is possible even under relatively good signal conditions (i.e., where Wi-Fi signal strength exceeds −80 dBm) because of the “polite” Wi-Fi back-off mechanisms as described with respect to FIG. 2 supra, unfriendly connection mechanisms by the other RATs (e.g., aggressive energy detection (ED) levels, open-ended connection algorithms that may be exploited by individual equipment vendors looking to push the connection to a particular RAT) and/or other contributive factors (e.g., hard-coded software settings within operating systems of client devices).

To illustrate, the scenario in FIG. 3b shows a venue with two (2) RATs deployed, specifically Wi-Fi (providing access to a network via, e.g., a WAP 302 operated by a cable network operator) as well as LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA (providing access to a network via, e.g., a cellular tower 304 operated by a mobile network operator). The Wi-Fi AP 302 seeks to provide service to wireless-enabled client device C1 via Wi-Fi. The LTE cell tower 304 seeks to provide service to another wireless-enabled client device C2.

Although client device C1 sees a nearly minimal signal strength of −80 dBm from Wi-Fi AP 302, a user of C1 may seek to connect to the network via Wi-Fi for various reasons, including e.g.: (i) to perform activities that require consistent bandwidth usage (e.g., VoIP calls, video chats), (ii) reduce the quota or charges against LTE “data” usage, (iii) avoid any packet delays or jitters during handovers between LTE nodes (e.g., moving between coverage areas of small cells or towers), (iv) save battery power while at or going to a venue without ready access to a power outlet, and/or (v) gain access to services particular to a service provider of which the user is a subscriber (e.g., content or media exclusive to the service provider, access to email services, online or remote “cloud” storage, convenient access to billing information and/or payment options reviewable by customers, access to support and troubleshooting help, or interface for shopping for additional hardware or features).

Conversely, a cable network operator or other MSO may seek to preferentially provide Wi-Fi access to its customers at a venue, and/or serve secondary content (e.g., contextually appropriate banner or other advertisements, sponsored video content and/or other means of monetization). Stated simply, the MSO or its customers (e.g., third parties such as advertisers, content providers, etc.) may obtain a better ROI or more “impressions” when Wi-Fi is selectively used over say LTE-U or LTE-LAA.

Furthermore, it is noted that a low Wi-Fi signal strength does not necessarily correlate to a low connection speed; assuming the Wi-Fi connection between an access point and a client device is stabilized, it may be possible to perform comparatively high-speed browsing, file transfers, or other operations.

Hence, there are various circumstances or reasons that a client device or its user (and/or a service provider) might prefer use of Wi-Fi.

However, the presence of the second RAT (provided by LTE cell tower 304) may cause a signal collision on the same channel 36 on the same frequency band (e.g., 5.0 GHz) used by the Wi-Fi AP 302. The collision may be due to various factors. The LTE tower 304 may be operating a more aggressive connection mechanism. Alternatively (or in addition), the LTE tower 304 may be operating at a transmit power or threshold similar to that typically used for Wi-Fi, or where the signal strength of LTE exceeds that of Wi-Fi, such as −73 dBm (which is higher than the typical minimal Wi-Fi connectivity threshold). The higher transmit power may be by virtue of, inter alia, having a relatively larger geographic coverage, and capabilities to provide connectivity to thousands of users per tower. Thus, in a coexistence scenario such as the one described with respect to FIG. 3b , one or more of the aforementioned factors may cause the connection management function of the client device C1 (e.g., an O/S based connection manager class within the Java-based Android O/S such as “Context.getSystemService(Context.CONNECTIVITY_SERVICE)”) to treat LTE as more “accessible” (or even as the only viable option), thereby causing the client device C1 to prioritize LTE and connect to the LTE service.

Hence, the present disclosure sets forth various embodiments of methods and apparatus to enable a RAT-aware networked system such as that of FIGS. 2-2 a to, inter alia, apply a dynamic change in connection mechanisms of access points and/or client devices, in order to provide a more selective and controlled connectivity procedure for one or more coexisting RATs.

FIG. 4 is a high-level logical diagram illustrating operation of the network architecture 200 of FIGS. 2-2 a to selectively control Wi-Fi connection within a venue or environment deploying coexisting Wi-Fi and LTE-U or LTE-LAA services. More specifically, in illustrated example, the coexistence controller 210 communicates with: (i) the background scanner 214, which monitors the local or venue service area 416 (including the coverage areas of the APs 204, 206 and the coverage area of the LTE cell station 408) to characterize the RF environment of the service area 416; and (ii) the in-venue APs 204, 206, to apply dynamic changes as needed to one or more of the APs, and also optionally the CM apps 221 on the clients with which the APs communicate.

As shown in FIG. 4, Wi-Fi may coexist with LTE-U or LTE-LAA serviced by, e.g., at least one LTE cell tower 408.

In the exemplary embodiment, the dedicated background scanner 214 comprises an RF sensor configured in an “access point” hardware environment (that is, basically an AP without the AP functionality, although as described in greater detail below, the present disclosure contemplates both (i) co-location of the scanner 214 with an AP; and/or (ii) use of an AP as a scanner in certain operating modes). The RF sensor is configured to scan and detect signals that are propagating within the venue (e.g., Wi-Fi signals, LTE signals, and/or other radio signals in the frequency band(s) of interest) that may potentially be used by wireless client devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops, tablets, “roaming” devices, and other mobile user devices in the venue)—in effect acting as a RAT detector. The scanner 214 may comprise one or more antennas and/or transceivers, although it may in certain embodiments be as simple as an RF receiver and single (non-MIMO) antenna. Distinct from Wi-Fi APs 204 and 206, the background scanner 214 may report network conditions within the venue to the CC 210, but not provide connectivity to client devices in the venue. Such “dedicated” background scanner 214 that does not transmit data to multiple client devices advantageously allows the scanner to allocate its computing and other resources to detecting and reporting relevant network characteristics to the CC 210, e.g., number and types of RATs deployed in the venue, signal levels, channel information, congestion levels, and signal noise. When configured with MIMO or MISO capability (or multiple spatially diverse antenna and receiver chains such as a phased array), the scanner 214 may also provide data to enable spatial resolution of the detected RF signals; e.g., a map of RSSI or the like as a function of absolute or relative azimuth (ϕ)—in effect an angular “heat map”. Moreover, where two or more scanners 214 are utilized at different locations within the same venue or region of interest, 2-D or even 3-D spatial resolution and mapping is possible, such as can be conducted by the CC 210 or even a backend MSO server process running a suitable algorithm to process the obtained RF data from the scanner(s) 214.

In one embodiment, the range covered by the background scanner 214 may be based on a designated physical or virtual boundary; e.g., the background scanner may have a list of known access points and LTE nodes within the premises of a stadium, shopping mall, airport, etc. The background scanner may thus be strategically positioned within the venue so as to be able to sense signals originating from various nodes, e.g., placed in a location having relative proximity to each of the known APs and nodes, or placed away from potential signal-blocking structures such as metallic barriers and fences.

In one implementation, the background scanner is placed near to at least one known Wi-Fi AP and scan for all detectable signals, including those that might compete or interfere with the AP. For example, consider a scenario in which the background scanner 214 is placed within a service area 414 (FIG. 4) that is within the effective range of the Wi-Fi AP 204. Such a placement allows a service provider (e.g., MSO) to detect whether another RAT (e.g., LTE) coexists in an area where competitive “shaping” procedures should be implemented, hence giving users a greater range of options in terms of connectivity and activities suitable for available connections. In other words, the background scanner 214 is situated so as to be able to detect both Wi-Fi and LTE within range of a Wi-Fi access point; a client device within the service area 414 is also therefore likely to see both Wi-Fi and LTE signals, and hence the scanner 214 obtains data representative of the client device experience within that area 414.

In one variant, at least one background scanner 214 is placed near the edge of the venue 416, which is a location likely to experience a scenario in which a one signal (e.g., Wi-Fi) may be overwhelmed by another (e.g., LTE) and would require control of detection thresholds, transmit power, etc. as described herein.

In another variant, at least one background scanner is located so that it detects signals within one or more representative areas relative to the planned users; i.e., only areas where users might actually be, or be able to utilize their client devices. For example, in one such case, an airport may have numerous areas which are not accessible to users, such as runways, taxiways, maintenance hangers, baggage processing areas, etc. Whether users might find their WLAN competing with an LTE signal is immaterial in these locations (and in fact, due to possible conflict with aircraft or other facility RF systems, it may be desirable to maintain the RF signal in certain bands as low as possible in such areas).

In another variant, the background scanner can be configured to detect only the type of signals which are known to be (routinely) present within the venue area 416; e.g., to scan for Wi-Fi and LTE only.

As will be further described herein, in order to maintain a persistent connection to Wi-Fi, the CC 210 may then modify transmit settings associated with the AP 204, 206 and/or cause one or more client devices to adjust a detection threshold.

In some implementations, the background scanner 214 is configured to perform scanning and reporting functions via a “repurposed” wireless AP. For example, an existing AP (similar to AP 204, 206) may operate various types of antennas, such as multiple-in multiple-out antennas (e.g., 2×2, 3×3, 4×4, and so on), omnidirectional antennas (i.e., communication in multiple directions, e.g., 360 degrees), patch antennas, or phased arrays. In one variant, one or more sets of radio chains and associated antennas within a MIMO array may be reconfigured to detect background signals, and communicate with the CC 210 via the AP backhaul. In other words, an AP may have one or more of multiple antennas dedicated for, or even selectively useful for, background scanning, while other ones of the multiple antennas continue to provide Wi-Fi services to Wi-Fi-compliant devices within range. In contrast, a “dummy” AP (scanner) that solely reports information (e.g., channel information, status report, client device information, presence of RATs) may use all of its antennas and other functionality to perform the background scanning and reporting. One such “dummy” AP may comprise the exemplary dedicated background scanner 214 as shown in FIG. 4.

Nevertheless, it can be appreciated that any combination of “active” antennas and “scanner” antennas may be used. For instance, a 4×4 MIMO may use two antennas for providing Wi-Fi and two antennas for scanning and reporting, assuming that certain factors are considered, such as e.g., number of customers or connections to serve, or whether sufficient computing resources are available to handle the desired operations.

In another embodiment, the background scanner may establish temporary connections to one or more client devices and obtain network-related information, e.g., SSIDs that are seen by the client devices, signal strengths related thereto. The background scanner does not provide service to the client devices; rather, the connection is only established to monitor network statistics through the client devices; in effect, the clients are mobile proxies for the scanner(s) 214. This non-service data communication may be utilized in addition to detecting RF signals and related data via the antennas and/or transceivers of the scanner itself, as previously described. However, in some variants, the background scanner may also provide network service; e.g., if the scanner is a “repurposed” wireless AP, it may be sufficiently equipped to provide Wi-Fi service. For example, in one implementation, computerized logic on the AP/scanner may invoke the background scanner to function as a Wi-Fi AP (or vice versa), e.g., such as when the CC 210 determines that expanding the Wi-Fi service range will enhance service for a threshold number of client devices within a given area, and accordingly transmits a message to the AP/scanner (e.g., via its wired or wireline backhaul) to cause the mode change.

In various implementations, data or collections of data (e.g., reports) may be sent periodically, at predetermined times (e.g., determined by the CC 210, CM provisioning server 201, or the scanner itself), at random times, at times dynamically determined based on network conditions, or as needed (e.g., based on a “pull” received from the CC 210 or other entity). For example, if the background scanner 214 does not detect a coexisting RAT (e.g., only detects Wi-Fi), then it may determine that there is no need for a frequent (or any) report to the CC 210. That is, the background scanner may send no data or report, and schedule a confirmatory scan at a later time as determined automatically (e.g., algorithmically, or based on historical or statistical calculations) by logic within the scanner or the CC 210. If a subsequent scan detects no competing RAT, then the scan interval may be “backed off” or otherwise modified. Alternatively or in addition, the data or report from a given scan or set of scans may be scheduled for transmission at a future time, such as after aggregation of enough data for the CC 210 to conduct sufficient analysis.

In some implementations, the CC 210 may be in a localized controller that resides in the AP 204, 206, or within the background scanner(s) 214, or may have components or processes distributed in each (in effect forming a “virtual” controller). In other implementations, the CC 210 may be located within the venue but separate from the AP/scanner(s), or within an intermediate network entity, e.g., the aforementioned data center or other portion of the MSO infrastructure as shown in FIGS. 2-2 a. Such a localized location for the CC 210 may in some cases improve communication with the background scanner 214; for example, there may be lower latency with respect to receiving frequent reports from the background scanner 214 and corresponding acknowledgement from the local CC. Communication with Wi-Fi APs 204, 206) may also be similarly enhanced; e.g., for pushing updates or configuration change data to the APs.

When the CC 210 receives a report from the background scanner(s) 214, the CC 210 (and/or other entities with the infrastructure such as the provisioning server 201 if so configured) is then able to perform, inter alia, radio resource management (RRM) procedures. In one implementation, such RRM procedures include algorithmic analysis of the data collected by the background scanner(s) 214 in order to characterize the RF environment within which the APs 204, 206 served by the CC 210 operate, and ultimately modify the configuration of the WLAN modem(s) thereof if needed. Such characterization may include assessment of data relating to any number of parameters, including specific measures of link quality such as, without limitation: received signal strength (RSS/RSSI), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR), signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR), carrier-to-interference plus noise ratio (CINR), bit error rate (BER), block error rate (BLER), packet error rate (PER), etc., depending on the capabilities of the scanner 214 itself. For example, where the scanner 216 is more simplified and merely measures RF parametric data, it may not have sufficient capability to measure BER/BLER/PER, since it is transacting no client data. Alternatively, more capable scanner configurations (e.g., where the scanner 214 also functions as an AP) may be able to provide more comprehensive statistics.

Referring back to the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 2, the CC 210 is configured to send instructions and/or data (e.g., configuration files) to Wi-Fi APs 202, 204, 206, 208 in the network based at least on reports received from the scanner(s) 214, 216, 218. Instructions or data may be delivered through existing infrastructure that provides data communication between APs and the backend, including wired and/or wireless means. For example, each scanner is configured to (i) receive data, including commands, from the coexistence controller 210 or other entity, and (ii) collect and upload monitoring statistics or other relevant data to the controller 210, each of (i) and (ii) which may occur via a wired or wireless link. For example, the sensors may include CAT-5/6 network capability (e.g., via an Ethernet or similar PHY), or alternatively may use a short- or -moderate range wireless link such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, or even Wi-Fi.

Moreover, the “zero-IT” provisioning connection manager (CM) server 201, which is also in the backend and/or in another centralized managed location of the MSO network as shown in FIG. 2, may store a configuration file (e.g., an autoconfig file) associated with various clients, such as in the client database 203 (FIG. 2). It may also access the AP DB 205 regarding AP configuration data. In one embodiment, a configuration file for a client 211, 212, 213 may be retrieved by the CM provisioning server 201, modified per the data/reports and information received from the CC 210 (or even the background scanner(s) 214, 216, 218 directly), and pushed to the CM 221 of the clients respectively. In one variant, the CM provisioning server analyzes the data of the reports before transferring a configuration file to the clients indicating which parameters are to be modified. In one embodiment, the logical communication between the protocol stack of the CM 221 and that of the provisioning server 201 software (shown as dotted lines 250 on FIG. 2) is physically effected via any relevant PHY or medium between the client and the provisioning server 201, including for example: (i) via the WLAN communications between the CC 210 and the clients (e.g., via a downlink from the CC to each client for installation); (ii) via an LTE or other cellular data link of the client (e.g., as sent by the MSO via SMS or other means, whereby the receiving client can access a URL via the LTE data interface); (iii) via a PAN interface of sufficient bandwidth (e.g., EDR Bluetooth or the like), or via yet other means.

As an aside, downloadable application or “app” may be available to client devices of subscribers of an MSO or cable network (and/or the general public), where the app allows users to connect to or obtain MSO-provided services. Application program interfaces (APIs) may be included in an MSO-provided applications, installed with other proprietary software that comes prepackaged with the client device, or natively available on the CC or other controller apparatus. Such APIs may include common network protocols or programming languages configured to enable communication with other network entities as well as receipt and transmit signals that may be interpreted by a receiving device (e.g., client device).

In one implementation, the changes to the client WLAN interface transmitted via the configuration data (file) may include alteration of the client WLAN transmission and/or reception characteristics, such as transmit power level, energy detect (ED) threshold level, beamform parameters (e.g., modification of phase and/or amplitude of transmitter signal), use of one or more antennas, etc., thereby making Wi-Fi a more viable connection option, e.g., for these client devices, such as when on the edge of the Wi-Fi network where a minimal signal strength of approximately −80 dBm or lower may occur. For example, the settings on the client device may be modified by the configuration data transmitted to the CM 221 so as to make the client device more receptive to certain RATs, i.e., the client device may consider a weak Wi-Fi signal (e.g., at −80 dBm) a viable connection despite the existence of a coexisting network. Accordingly, the modified transmit characteristics allow client devices within range of the AP and/or users of the client devices to “see” a Wi-Fi AP that may not have been detectable otherwise in a coexistence scenario with LTE (e.g., a service set identifier (SSID) may now appear in a list of available networks).

Likewise, the APs 202, 204, 206, 208 may receive their relevant configuration data (e.g., modified configuration file) from the CC 210 directly via the respective AP backhaul(s), and apply changes to its transmission and/or reception characteristics, such as transmit power level, energy detect (ED) threshold level, beamform parameters (e.g., modification of phase and/or amplitude of transmitter signal), physical configuration of one or more antennas at the AP (e.g., angle of antennas, relative distance from each other), etc., thereby making the WLAN AP a more viable connection option for the client devices. The original configurations may be stored at the respective AP 202, 204, 206, 208, and/or retrieved from the AP DB 205 (FIG. 2), whether by the CC 210 or the provisioning server 201. In some embodiments, the applied updates to the configuration at each AP may persist for a prescribed period of time, or until a new update is applied to that AP.

Notably, in one variant, the AP DB 205 also is configured to contain data obtained by the scanner(s) (and/or APs functioning as scanners) in order to characterize the particular venue or premises in terms of electromagnetic environment. For example, the DB 205 may include tabular or other data reflecting the strength of in-band (e.g., 2.4 or 5.0 GHz) emitters, their persistence, variation as a function of time, and even azimuthal or spatial variation. In this fashion, changes in the venue or premises environment may be detected (e.g., by comparing a venue profile taken currently with a historical one for that same venue), and correlated to e.g., events of interest being held within the venue. Moreover, such data can be useful in predicting the effects of configuration changes within the venue, whether due to AP/scanner placement, additional user devices, physical changes to the venue, etc. See, e.g., co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/612,630 filed Jun. 2, 2017 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS SERVICE IN A VENUE,” incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, for exemplary uses of such data.

Exemplary Operation

Based on the foregoing architecture 200 of FIG. 2, an exemplary process for controlling multiple coexisting wireless networks according to the present disclosure will now be described in the context of FIG. 4.

In one exemplary scenario, both Wi-Fi and LTE (e.g., LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA) are deployed within a venue (e.g., airport, shopping mall, stadium, hospital, concert hall, or other commercial buildings). Wi-Fi is served by at least one Wi-Fi access point 202, 204, 206, 208 maintained by the service provider/network operator, which also operates CC 210 and CM provisioning server 201. The APs are able to reach client devices 211, e.g., those within range of a service area 414. LTE is served by a neighboring node 408 (e.g., a base station, small cell, etc.) in or proximate to the same venue. The LTE node 408 provides LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA connectivity to the venue. More directly, LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA may operate in the same frequency band as typical Wi-Fi connections (e.g., 5 GHz band or other unlicensed band), causing “collision” with regular Wi-Fi signals. As discussed supra, the client device may prioritize a connection to the LTE node 408 depending on the hardware configuration or software setting of the cell tower and/or the client device itself. Nonetheless, client devices 211 are capable of wirelessly accessing a network via the AP(s) and the cell tower 408 on the same channel (pending resolution of the competition for the medium).

The dedicated background scanner 214 detects the presence of Wi-Fi and LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA (collectively “LTE” for the purposes of this exemplary operation) operating in the same channel. The background scanner 214 may also report statistics related to usage of one or more channels, number of client devices, number of RATs, types of RATs, congestion level and/or other relevant information. The background scanner transmits this information to the CC 210, e.g., in one or more data messages or structures (e.g., report files).

To mitigate the effect of collision between the detected RATs (i.e., Wi-Fi and LTE), the CC 210 determines that the configuration of one or more Wi-Fi APs (e.g., AP 204 in FIG. 4) should be updated so as to meet a prescribed performance level; e.g., to match the LTE in connectivity parameters (such as back-off waiting period, LBT procedures, signal strength, RF parameters, etc.), thereby affording Wi-Fi a more competitive opportunity to connect with the client devices 211.

To update the configuration of the Wi-Fi AP 204, the CC 210 retrieves a configuration file (e.g., an “autoconfig” file) from the AP DB 205. The CC 210 adjusts the necessary parameters in the configuration file (e.g., connectivity parameters as described elsewhere herein) according to the report data received from the background scanner 214; notably, such adjustment or alteration can be conducted algorithmically; i.e., by a computerized logic operative on the CC 210. For instance, the exemplary logical flow implemented by the CC 210 in modifying an AP configuration as described with respect to FIGS. 5-5 b herein can be used in selectively altering the AP configuration.

After modification, the CC 210 sends the adjusted configuration file to the Wi-Fi AP 204. As long as the adjusted configuration file is in effect at the AP, any client devices 211 within the service range 414 may experience enhanced connectivity to the Wi-Fi, including a greater signal strength, more robust connection, uninterrupted connections, etc., even when competing with the LTE RAT.

Additionally, the network (e.g., the provisioning server 201, or even the CC 210 at direction of the provisioning server 201 and via the relevant AP 204) may push various settings by, e.g., interfacing with a software application (i.e., mobile “app”) to allow the client device to, e.g., lower an ED (energy detect) threshold so as to prevent de-prioritization of Wi-Fi services by the client's connection manager process. For instance, the client may be instructed to lower its the ED threshold for Wi-Fi to −80 dBm (e.g., from −73 dBm), while keeping the threshold for LTE the same. This selective adjustment allows the client device (and/or its user, such as via UI presented by the connection manager) to consider either a Wi-Fi connection—e.g., consider an SSID for the AP 204 as “visible” or eligible for connection to the device—as well as to use “data” to connect to LTE (as opposed to LTE being the only option). This software-based adjustment may be especially viable for customers of the MSO or network service provider providing the Wi-Fi service, such customers who may already enjoy various features of the mobile application provided by the MSO/provider which are not accessible via the LTE data interface.

However, in the exemplary implementation, the client device is not in any way precluded from or incapable of connecting to the LTE network. By adjusting the connectivity parameters of the Wi-Fi AP (and/or the client itself), such client devices may not disfavor Wi-Fi by virtue of, e.g., being on the edge of the Wi-Fi network range (e.g., near the dotted line of service area 414), but also may utilize LTE or other RATs when the latter is clearly the better choice.

Methods—

Various methods and embodiments thereof for controlling wireless networks according to the present disclosure are now described with respect to FIGS. 5-6.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method 500 implemented by the system architecture (e.g., the system 200 as discussed above with respect to FIG. 2) to enable connectivity to a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi network) by a client device in a coexistence environment. The wireless network useful with method 500 is not limited to those embodied in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5 herein, and may be used with any wireless-enabled client device and any architecture utilizing data communication among nodes (especially those with multiple coexisting networks).

At step 502, the CC (e.g., CC 210 of FIG. 2) or other network entity determines whether multiple coexisting radio access technologies (RATs) are present within a venue served by the CC 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the CC may determine a coexistence scenario by receiving a report from a background scanner (e.g., scanner 214 of FIG. 4) by wired or wireless data connection, where the report indicates that the scanner has detected two or more RATs operating in the same frequency band and/or channel(s) (e.g., Wi-Fi and LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA operating in the 5.0 GHz band).

In its simplest form, the detection of one or more co-existing RATs may be accomplished merely by receiving RF signals in a prescribed frequency band of sufficient strength (e.g., >N dBm in a band centered at 5.0 GHz+/−5 MHz), such as via an integration function which determines the area under the energy curve in that band (and hence the “intensity” of the possible interfering signal, thereby differentiating it from say background or spurious noise). Stated differently, the presence of a sufficiently intense RF signal in the particular band can be considered de facto evidence of the presence of a prescribed RAT technology. Such measurements can also utilize a temporal or persistence aspect; e.g., integrated over time, or repetitive instances within a prescribed period of time, such as would indicate a definitive downlink (DL) signal from a base station (e.g., eNodeB) or other RAT component.

Alternatively, the scanner logic (or that of another analytical entity, such as the CC 210 or server 201) can utilize more sophisticated techniques for RAT detection and identification. For example, it can be assumed that in an exemplary LTE-based installation, the DL (from base station to mobile) would be the primary interferer, based on its significantly higher radiated power as compared to the handset(s) on the UL. Hence, in one variant, the CC 210 (or other processing entity such as the server 201) can access the AP/environment database 205 (FIG. 2) to obtain historical data relating to exemplary LTE interference profiles; for example a Signal-to-Interference Noise Ratio (SINR) within a prescribed range (e.g., >23 dB to −2.5 dB), and/or a Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) within a given range (e.g., −70 dBm to −120 dBm).

SINR is defined by Eqn. (1) below:

SINR=S/(I+N)  (1)

where:

-   -   S is the power of measured usable signals, such as reference         signals (RS) and physical downlink shared channels (PDSCHs);     -   I is the average interference power; the power of measured         signals or channel interference signals from e.g., other cells;         and     -   N is background noise, which can be correlated to measurement         bandwidth and receiver noise coefficient(s).         In Eqn. (1), all quantities are generally measured over the same         frequency bandwidth and normalized to one sub-carrier bandwidth.         SINR is generally used as a measure of signal quality (and data         throughput), but it is not defined in the 3GPP standards (and         hence is not required to be reported to the network         infrastructure; however, UE's (mobile devices in the LTE         network) typically use SINR to calculate the CQI (Channel         Quality Indicator) which they do report to the network.

RSRP is defined, per 3GPP, as the linear average over the power contributions (in W) of the resource elements (REs) that carry cell-specific reference signals within the considered measurement frequency bandwidth. The reference point for the RSRP determination is the antenna connector of the UE.

RSRP measurement, normally expressed in dBm, is utilized for ranking different candidate cells in accordance with their perceived signal strength.

Hence, by analogy, SINR and/or RSRP can be determined by the scanner(s) 214, obtaining RSRP measurements for any (one or more) interfering base stations within the scanner range. With SINR/RSRP values within the prescribed ranges, the presence of one or more LTE base stations can be at least assumed.

Alternatively (or in conjunction with the foregoing), Received Signal Strength Index (RSSI) and/or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) may be utilized for LTE interferer detection. RSRQ is another signal quality metric, considering also RSSI and the number of used Resource Blocks (N); specifically:

RSRQ=(N*RSRP)/RSSI(measured over the same bandwidth)  (2)

RSSI is a measure of the average total received power observed only in OFDM symbols containing reference symbols for antenna port 0 (e.g., OFDM symbol 0 and 4 in a slot) in the measurement bandwidth over N resource blocks.

It is noted that the total received power of the carrier RSSI includes the power from common channel serving and non-serving cells, adjacent channel interference, thermal noise, and other sources. Hence, it is less specific than the above-described metrics.

Hence, in one implementation, one or more of the foregoing parameters are measured by the scanner(s) 214 in the region or venue of interest, within the target frequency band (e.g., in or around 5 GHz), and these values are compared to historical data within the database and reflective of an operating LTE system (such as for example at a prior time when an LTE base station was communicating with a prescribed or even indeterminate number of LTE UE's). As noted above, the historical data may also be represented as one or more parametric ranges, such that if the measured signals have values falling within the historical ranges, the presence of an LTE interferer is assumed.

While the foregoing techniques can generally reliably detect LTE interferers which may interfere with the WLAN client interface(s), the present disclosure contemplates yet further mechanisms which may be employed to definitively identify and/or characterize the interferer(s) as being LTE-based. Specifically, in one embodiment, the scanner(s) 214 (and/or the processing network entity or entities such as the CC 210 and/or the provisioning server 201) include an LTE emulator module 813 (FIG. 8) and analytical logic which may be rendered for example as a separate RF receiver with LTE-capable firmware, or as part of the extant scanner radio. In operation, the LTE emulator module is configured to receive and decode one or more “public” resource or broadcast channels transmitted by e.g., the interfering LTE base station(s). As is known, LTE systems utilize OFDM on their DL (base to UE), and SC-FDMA on their UL (UE to base), and further employ a number of shared/control channels for a variety of control, signaling, and other functions. These channels exist in both DL and UL directions, and include the: (i) physical downlink control channel (PDCCH); (ii) physical uplink control channel (PUCCH); (iii) physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH); and (iv) physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH). These channels can be decoded by a receiver such as the emulator module to definitely determine that a prescribed interferer in the frequency band(s) of interest is in fact LTE-based.

In operation, the LTE UE will report its CSI (channel state information, including CQI or channel quality index) via one of the UL channels; i.e., PUSCH or PUCCH, thereby characterizing the RF receiving environment for each reporting UE. The eNodeB takes the reported CSI information to develop a schedule for transmission to the UE(s) via the PDSCH, and DL resource allocation is made via the PDCCH. UL grants (for UE traffic operations such as when no PUSCH is available) are also made by the eNodeB via the PDCCH, based on requests sent via the PUCCH.

Table 1 below illustrates a hypothetical DL Link Budget (i.e., base to UE) for a data rate of 1 Mbps with dual-antenna receiver, in an exemplary frequency band (2.4 GHz):

TABLE 1 Data rate (Mbps) 1 Transmitter - eNode B a PDSCH power (dBm) 46.0  b TX antenna gain (dBi) 18.0  c Cable loss (dB) 1.0 d EIRP (dBm) 61.0 = a + b + c Receiver - UE e UE noise figure (dB) 7.0 f Thermal noise (dBm) — 104.5 = k(Boltzmann)* T(290 K)* B(360 kHz) g Receiver noise floor −97.5 = e + f (dBm) h SINR (dB) −10.0 (e.g., from scanner 214) i Receiver sensitivity −107.5 = g + h (dBm) j Interference Margin 3.0 (dB) k Control Channel 1.0 Overhead (dB) l RX antenna gain (dBi) 0.0 m Body Loss (dB) 0.0 Maximum path loss 164.5 dB (=d − i − j − k + l − m)

In this case, roughly 165 dB of loss can be sustained in the link between the transmitter (eNodeB) and the receiver (UE). Actual representative values for the aforementioned reference and control channels are shown in Table 2:

TABLE 2 MAPL (Link Budget) in MAPL (Link Budget) in Channel dB; zero sector loading dB; 50% sector loading PDCCH 158 155 PUCCH 158 155 PDSCH 156 151 PUSCH 148 145

Hence, in one embodiment, the aforementioned values (or similar) are stored in the environmental DB 205 (FIG. 2); when a suitable SINR/RSRP/RSRQ value is detected in the frequency band of interest by the scanner(s) 214 as described above, this data is sent by the scanner(s) to the CC 210 for further analysis, including accessing the aforementioned LTE DL (and UL if appropriate) signals to attempt to decode the appropriate communications on the detected broadcast channel(s). Note that the decode operations can be conducted by the scanner(s) themselves prior to obtaining any resource allocations (and hence without registration to the LTE network), depending on their firmware configuration and how the emulator module is implemented within the particular installation. Hence, the LTE emulator 813 (FIG. 8) of the exemplary embodiment advantageously need not be able to register with the interfering network, or have any data on the identity of the network, its operator, etc.

In one variant, the CC 210 is configured to, based on the MAPL values of Table 2 above (which are e.g., stored in the DB 205), determine one or more adjustments to the WLAN AP(s). For example, in one implementation, the measured SINR value from the scanner(s) 214 is used in an algorithm (such as reflected in Table 1) to, based on assumed values of thermal noise floor of the receiving scanner, scanner receiving antenna gain, zero body loss, etc., “back out” the requisite WLAN Tx power required to increase the power received at the receiving client device WLAN receiver chain to be, for instance, roughly comparable to the corresponding LTE signal (i.e., from the eNodeB), thereby ostensibly maintaining the WLAN interface “competitive” to the LTE interface.

For example (see Table 3), if the PDSCH zero sector loading MAPL is 156 dB (Table 2), and the DL Inference Margin (IM) is on the order of ≤5 dB, and an assumed SINR of −8.0 dB, etc., then the PDSCH transmit power can be calculated as follows:

TABLE 3 Data rate (Mbps) 1 Transmitter - eNode B a PDSCH power (dBm) 46.0  b TX antenna gain (dBi) 18.0  c Cable loss (dB) 1.0 d EIRP (dBm) 61.0 = a + b + c Receiver - Scanner e UE noise figure (dB) 7.0 f Thermal noise (dBm) −104.5 = k(Boltzmann)* T(290 K)* B(360 kHz) g Receiver noise floor −97.5 = e + f (dBm) h SINR (dB) −8.0  i Receiver sensitivity −105.5 = g + h (dBm) j Interference Margin 3.0 (dB) k Control Channel 1.0 Overhead (dB) l RX antenna gain (dBi) 0.0 m Body Loss (dB) 0.0 Maximum path loss 156 dB (=d − i − j − k + l − m) Tx eNodeB PDSCH power = 156 dB − 105.5 − 3.0 − 1.0 + 0.0 − 0.0 − 18.0 − 1.0 = 27.5 dB.

As will be recognized, more Tx power is not always better; specifically, there comes a point when a WLAN AP may, inter alia, interfere with other WLAN APs in the same venue, and/or the user (client) device receivers. Hence, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously calculate a Tx power level for the affected APs utilizing the methodology above, and insert this configuration change, as opposed to merely increasing the Tx power by e.g., prescribed increments. Notwithstanding, the present disclosure also contemplates use of a “feedback loop,” such as where the AP Tx is incrementally increased, and the effect on data rate or other performance metric evaluated to determine the efficacy of the increase (or other modification to e.g., the transmitter chain of the AP, and/or receiver chain of the client device). See also discussion of steps 590 and 592 of FIG. 5b provided infra.

It will also be appreciated that in the exemplary implementations, some assumptions regarding the source of LTE-based interference are made in order to simplify the protocol(s) employed by the CC 210 when performing the methods described herein. Specifically, as is known, transmitted RF power from a (presumed) point source falls of generally as 1/R², where R=distance from the transmitter. In that eNodeB base stations are generally not electrically power constrained and must cover relatively large geographical areas to provide service to customers, the transmit power (e.g., EIRP) of the eNodeB is typically many times higher than a corresponding UE transmitter at the same range. Accordingly, it is assumed in the exemplary implementation that the eNodeB(s) will be the interferer(s) of concern, with the UEs adding only marginally to that effect. However, it is also recognized that the UE may, as part of its UL communications, radiate at a location immediately proximate to the scanner and/or AP of interest, thereby making the UE an effective interferer due to its minimal 1/R² losses in the small distance between itself and the scanner/AP. Hence, in another implementation of the methodology, calculations similar to those for the LTE broadcast DL channels are performed for the UL channels, and used as part of the WLAN AP Tx power configuration. For example, it can be assumed a “worst case” scenario exists when the interfering UE is located directly proximate the WLAN client (e.g., a person standing next to the WLAN user is utilizing their LTE handset in the 5.0 GHz band). With an assumed MAPL of 148 dB for the PUSCH (Table 2), and knowing the measured SINR from the scanner 214, the maximum UE Tx UL power can be determined (using similar assumptions to those above), and the WLAN AP Tx adjustment set accordingly (i.e., to at least achieve parity with the greater of (i) the eNobeB Tx power, and (ii) the UE Tx power).

It is also recognized that UL/DL asymmetry typically exists; i.e., LTE UE users will be utilizing the DL much more than the UL (largely because LTE is a data service, and users of data services tend to download data more than upload/send it). Hence, the methodologies described herein can make use of this fact; e.g., whether by assumption, averaging (e.g., measurement at a number of different times, and presumptively most of which will be representative of DL activity), or active “avoidance” measures such as affirmatively determining when the UE/eNodeB are involved in a DL versus UL transaction).

The scanner data may include, inter alia, how many RATs are present, which RATs are present, which frequency bands or channels are occupied, number of client devices in the area, signal strengths, congestion levels, noise (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio), etc. Alternatively, the scanner data may merely be unprocessed data that is then processed by the CC 210 (or its designated processing proxy such as the CM server 201) to identify the existence of the other RAT(s). It is also noted that the scanner(s) 214 (and/or the system 200 generally) may be configured to, depending on which of the approaches described above are used in a particular implementation, differentiate between: (i) certain types of RATs (e.g., LTE, which is an OFDM-based system (downlink) and SC-FDMA on uplink and which uses multiple time and frequency assets such as multiple sub-carriers and time slots, versus say a CDMA/DSSS-based RAT such as WCDMA which utilizes spreading codes to distribute its energy across say a 5 MHz band); and (ii) between RAT and non-RAT sources within a given band (e.g., a cordless telephone or microwave oven and an LTE or CDMA system).

Moreover, such differentiation can be used as the basis for determining what particular contention management actions (if any) to take under a variety of different scenarios. For example, in one variant, failure to detect an OFDM or CDMA or FHSS type of waveform/modulation/spectral access scheme may by default be considered to be a spurious or non-contentious interferer, such as a microwave oven, leakage from nearby high-power electrical or other equipment, etc. Conversely, identification of a particular spectral access or modulation scheme known to be associated with only certain classes of RATs (e.g., FHSS used in Bluetooth PAN interfaces) can enable determination of the contention management actions necessary; in the case of PANs, nothing may need to be done, since their transmit power is generally very low relative to WLAN. Alternatively, for presumed spurious signals, a short term correction or modification may be implemented; e.g., temporary ED reduction, Tx power increase, migration to another band, etc.

Additionally, when the temporal aspects of the signal show only intermittent presence, such data may be used to divine the prospective source(s). For instance, in a crowded venue, many people are presumed to carry (and utilize) LTE-based phones, by which data communications can be conducted. Hence, if the scan of the venue indicates only a very intermittent single 2.4 GHz interferer (or small group of interferers), this is likely not due to a competing LTE-based RAT, and may in fact be due to a non-RAT source (or at least a RAT with insufficient RF transmit power to significantly impede WLAN negotiation and service, such as a Bluetooth link to a user's headset or a cordless phone).

It is further noted that the CM server 201 or proxy entity may make the determination of the existence/classification of the other RATs (as opposed to the CC or scanner), and merely inform the relevant AP(s) that a co-existence scenario does in fact exist.

Returning again to the method 500 of FIG. 5, if a coexistence scenario is not detected, Wi-Fi access points in the venue may continue operating normally. If coexistence is detected at step 502, a multi-RAT “competition management” procedure begins at step 504.

At step 504, the CC may request and receive a configuration file (e.g., an “autoconfig” file) associated with one or more Wi-Fi access points from the provisioning server 201 or other entity (such as from the AP database 205 directly). The one or more Wi-Fi APs to be modified under the competition management plan may include all detected APs in a particular venue; for example, the background scanner may see SSIDs associated with APs that are detected in the venue over a given period of time. In other embodiments, the Wi-Fi APs to tune be identified based on which ones the background scanner has detected, or based on APs known to the CC 210.

At step 506, the CC modifies one or more connectivity parameters within the configuration file for each of the Wi-Fi APs identified in step 504 as discussed previously herein.

In one embodiment, the configuration data modification may dictate that transmit power of the Wi-Fi AP be increased. For example, the typical 20 dBm Wi-Fi transmit power may be increased to 30 dBm (or according to any applicable regulations), e.g., via “iwconfig” commands. Increased transmit power may increase the range of service of the AP and/or improve the signal strength received by a client device above that of LTE. A increased transmit power may enhance the battery life of client devices as well: By increasing Wi-Fi signal strength, the client device (or its user) may prefer to connect via Wi-Fi rather than a more power-intensive LTE connection. In another embodiment, the configuration data modification may instruct the transmit power of the AP to be reduced. A reduced transmit power may conserve power consumption of the AP, which may be useful for APs that are battery powered, used relatively infrequently, or typically used by client devices that are within close range (a café setting, lounge area, gift shop, small office, concession stand, airport gate, etc.), so as to inter alia, mitigate interference with other RATs (whether operated by the MSO or otherwise), reduce EMI exposure of patrons within the venue, or extend component lifetime (e.g., the longevity of the AP RF transmit chain may vary as a function of transmit power).

In one variant, the CC 210 may include data or instructions (e.g., in a configuration file sent to the AP(s) being modified) to dynamically adjust the transmit power based on distance to client devices. In one implementation thereof, to measure the distance, the AP may emit one or more beacons that may be received by a client device, and the client device may send back a response to the AP. The client may determine which AP to respond to based on, e.g., a bit-stuffed SSID within the beacons as described in co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/063,314 filed Mar. 7, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC OPEN-ACCESS NETWORKS”, incorporated by reference supra. In another embodiment, the configuration file data may cause the Wi-Fi AP (or the client device, as discussed below) to communicate on a different frequency range allowed for IEEE 802.11 protocols. For example, instead of enforcing a connection over the 5 GHz spectrum, others such as 2.4 GHz or 3.6 GHz may be allowed. In some variants, the modified configuration file may contain instructions for switching to an explicit frequency or frequencies, or instructions to switch automatically as needed (e.g., based on congestion level or other network conditions), cycled periodically or on a schedule, or based on some other algorithm. This modification allows Wi-Fi users to, at least temporarily, sidestep other RATs that may be operating in one congested frequency band.

In another embodiment, the configuration file may cause a Wi-Fi AP to enable or disable one or more of its antennas. For example, by enabling an additional antenna, the AP may reach additional users. Disabling an antenna may allow the Wi-Fi AP to qualify and serve only users who are near the AP and possibly out of service range of other RATs.

At step 508, the CC transmits the modified configuration data to the appropriate Wi-Fi AP(s). At step 510, the CC causes implementation, by the Wi-Fi AP, of the modified configuration data. Instructions to modify the parameters at the AP may be executed by a processor apparatus residing on the AP. At step 512, the method 500 then utilizes one or more performance assessment techniques to evaluate the performance of the AP(s) and/or prevailing RF environment in the venue after implementing the AP configuration change(s). In one variant, the scanner(s) 214 is/are used to collect additional parametric data relating to the frequency bands of interest within the venue, so as to permit e.g., relative comparison of the various RATs under the new AP transmit profiles (or other changes). Alternatively (or in conjunction with scanning), the performance of the APs may be assessed via parametric data relating to actual data sessions such as BER/PER, data throughput rate, frequency of dropped connections, etc.

Per step 514, the system 200 will determine that either (i) the modifications to the relevant AP(s) in the venue were sufficient to provide the desired level of performance, or (ii) the modifications were not sufficient. Note that within steps 510 through 514 of the method 500, multiple iterations or loops may occur, such as where individual parameters are modified successively in an incremental fashion, and the performance subsequently assessed, and/or where different parameters are modified on subsequent iterations (and performance subsequently assessed).

In the event that steps 510-514 do not produce a sufficient level of performance, the method 500 then continues to step 516, where modifications to the client device(s) 211, 212, 213 can be made, presuming they are configured to do so (i.e., via presence of the aforementioned connection manager (CM) app 221 or other capability within their indigenous OS or WLAN modem). In one embodiment, the provisioning server 201 (or even the Wi-Fi AP to which the client is connected) may instruct a given client device to lower the threshold for detecting and connecting to Wi-Fi. For example, the Wi-Fi threshold may be reduced from −72 dBm to −80 dBm in order to be competitive with one or more other RATs in the venue using the same frequency and/or channels (e.g., LTE-U or LTE-LAA). In one variant, pre-coded configuration files are resident on the client with CM app 221, such that certain prescribed scenarios can be invoked by the client without having to download further configuration data; i.e., the provisioning server 201 or instructing AP 204 may simply communicate to the client that it should implement a particular scenario or configuration file, at which point the client indigenously alters its configuration based on the pre-coded data. In one variant, the (re)configuration data may instruct the client device to reduce the ED threshold yet further down (e.g., from −72 dBm to −85 dBm). One advantage of this type of modification such that the client device will even more aggressively prefer Wi-Fi over other RATs (e.g., LTE-U, LTE-LAA). However, it may also see degraded connection quality and other performance issues associated with a weak signal. In one implementation, a further-lower threshold may be useful with a Wi-Fi AP serving a lower coverage area (e.g., used in a small setting, such as a café) and/or using a lower transmit power (e.g., battery-powered AP).

In some embodiments of the exemplary method described above, the CC 210 may adjust the connectivity parameters (Wi-Fi ED threshold, AP transmit power, etc.) irrespective of a coexistence scenario. In other words, the CC may cause a node, e.g., the Wi-Fi AP(s), to maximize its connectivity performance, or cause a client device to connect to a particular node. In the case of Wi-Fi, providing a likely connection thereto without checking for coexistence may advantageously improve the performance of a client device (with respect to, e.g., battery consumption and connection speed) when the client device is persistently encouraged to connect to Wi-Fi, which may result in less consumption of limited battery power depending on respective signal strengths of available Wi-Fi and LTE connections (e.g., by virtue of eliminating the need to switch radio states in a coexistence scenario, requiring generally less power consumption on Wi-Fi relative to LTE, or obviating the need to search for either Wi-Fi access points or LTE cell towers). It may further result in less consumption of LTE “data” (subject to, e.g., a quota from the LTE service provider).

FIG. 5a illustrates an exemplary implementation of the method 500 of FIG. 5, in the context of a managed network architecture 200 such as that of FIG. 2.

As shown in FIG. 5a , the method 520 includes activating the scanner(s) 214 per step 522, and configuring them as needed (e.g., for one or more bands of interest) per step 524. Per step 526, the environment in which the scanner(s) is/are located is scanned for the parameter(s) of interest (e.g., SINR/RSRP/RSRQ), and the measured values compared to one or more relevant threshold or window criteria, such as those retrieved from the DB 205. If the measured values meet the prescribed criteria per steps 528 and 530, then the measured data is then reported to the CC 210 per step 532 (because an LTE-based interferer presumptively exists). Based thereon, the CC 210 adjust the Tx power of the one or more affected APs per step 534, and subsequently monitors performance for the WLAN system per step 536 to determine its sufficiency. For instance, in one embodiment, the CC 210 obtains data rate and/or error rate data, or data relating to connection “drops” (ostensibly indicative of failed user attempts to connect to the WLAN) from the AP over a period of time, and algorithmically assesses whether the inserted configuration change was effective. If not, follow-on adjustments to the AP (which may include additional power increases, change in MCS, variation in spatial diversity profile, or other changes), and/or the client (e.g., ED threshold change via the CM 221) are implemented via step 538.

It will be appreciated that while the scanner(s) 214 is/are shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5a as performing the scanned data threshold/window analysis, such analysis may be performed in whole or part by the CC 210 or other network entity as well. For example, the scanner(s) may simply report the scan results to the CC 210 for analysis thereby.

FIG. 5b shows yet another implementation of the methodology of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5b , the method 540 includes first activating the scanner(s) 214 per step 542, and configuring them as needed (e.g., for one or more bands of interest) per step 544. Per step 546, the environment in which the scanner(s) is/are located is scanned for the parameter(s) of interest (e.g., SINR/RSRP/RSRQ), and the measured values compared to one or more relevant threshold or window criteria, such as those retrieved from the DB 205. If the measured values meet the prescribed criteria per steps 548 and 550, then the measured data is then reported to the CC 210 per step 552.

At step 554, the CC 210 activates one or more LTE emulator modules 813 within the scanner(s) 214 to evaluate the hypothesis that an LTE eNodeB (and/or interfering handset; discussed supra) is active within the service area 416. In the exemplary embodiment, the CC 210 at steps 554 and 556 attempts to establish timing information for the network to establish that it is in fact an LTE network. For instance, in one implementation, the PSS (primary synchronization signal) is detected using measurements of RSSI and CAZAC (e.g., Zadoff-Chu sequence) autocorrelation properties, as a UE would normally do when attempting to register with the network. Specifically, wideband power is measured in a set of prescribed frequency bands, and the bands are ranked based on RSSI magnitude. The Zadoff-Chu sequences are then evaluated in the frequency domain for a given number of timing hypotheses to determine the eNodeB's group identity. At this point, the CC 210 can definitely say that the received signal data is in fact due to an LTE eNodeB pert step 558.

Next, per steps 560 and 562, the broadcast channel(s) of interest (e.g., PDSCH) is decoded and evaluated, such as against historical data for LTE eNodeB's maintained within the environmental database 205. While the evaluation of steps 556 and 558 can definitively determine the existence of an LTE-based emitter, they do not provide sufficient information for evaluation of the relative strength of the emitter(s) as measured at the scanner(s) 214, and hence steps 560 and 562 are used to enable use of MAPL data as described above to provide an estimate of adjusted Tx power for the WLAN AP such that it will at least achieve parity with the LTE eNodeB. For example, in one implementation of steps 560 and 562, the measured SINR from step 546 is used, as in Table 3 above, to calculate the estimated eNodeB Tx power given certain assumptions about the eNodeB obtained from the environmental DB 205, including maximum allowed MAPL, DL IM, etc. Consistency with historical data for an eNodeB is also again optionally evaluated per step 564 (e.g., does the calculated PDSCH Tx power fall within a “realistic” band), and assuming that the scanned data still qualifies as a valid eNodeB broadcast signal, the AP configuration data is accessed per step 566, and the coexistence algorithm of the CC 210 (and/or provisioning server 210, depending on configuration) is invoked per step 568.

It is also noted that the selective decode of UL and/or DL broadcast channels present within the scanned environment can be used as a basis of evaluating different hypotheses of the observed interferer(s). For instance, in one implementation, the CC 210 logic is configured to cause the emulator module 813 to attempt to receive and decode both PDSCH and PUSCH channels; the ability to decode one but not the other may provide clues as to the identity of the interferer(s). For example, if the PDSCH decode is successful, but no PUSCH decode can be completed after repeated attempts, then it can be surmised that the interferer is an eNodeB, versus a very close UE.

As part of the coexistence algorithm implementation, the first “correction” within the algorithm hierarchy is implemented per step 570. For example, it may be determined that the most efficient convergence on a desired environment within a target venue is achieved by implementing a first hierarchy template, the latter which may include: (i) first incrementing the Tx power of the WLAN AP, in a series of prescribed steps; and (ii) thereafter adjusting one or more additional Tx parameters such as spatial diversity/beamforming settings, MCS, etc., and (iii) thereafter adjusting the ED threshold of the client(s), as required, based on the prescribed performance metric (e.g., received WLAN link performance data per step 572 such as may be obtained from the AP while transacting data with the client(s)).

Per step 576, the inserted adjustment or configuration change is then evaluated for a prescribed period of time (which may include a dynamically determined period based on lack of client device access of the WLAN, since the client may, when confronted with poor WLAN performance, has opted to utilize the LTE data connection for at least a period of time), and additional adjustments or changes inserted as needed based on the selected hierarchy template until the last available correction or change is utilized (step 578), at which point the CC 210 generates an error message to the cognizant NMS (network management server; not shown) to alert the service provider that the particular venue or installation is ostensibly being “over-ranged” by the proximate LTE eNodeB(s).

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5b , the method 540 also optionally first: (i) re-initializes the participating/affected scanner(s) 214, since this has no impact on any ongoing data transactions via the AP(s), per step 586. Once re-initialized, the scanner then scans the environment to determine whether the measured parameters meet the threshold/window criteria (i.e., is the interfering emitter still active) per step 574, and if so, steps 572 and thereafter are again performed to determine if the WLAN link performance is acceptable (for example, where the scanner was operating improperly or merely required reboot).

If, on the other hand, the scanner re-initialization does not produce acceptable WLAN link performance then, per step 588, one or more of the affected APs is/are re-initialized in an attempt to solve the issue.

The illustrated methodology 540 of FIG. 5b also includes a logic “loop” to reduce or back out any inserted configuration changes or adjustments if desired. As noted above, more AP Tx power is not always desirable, and in fact can have negative consequences relating to, inter alia, inter-AP or AP/non-associated client interference. Hence, when the presence of a detected interferer ceases, the methodology 540 selectively removes any adjustments that have been entered (e.g., to the AP) via steps 590 and 592. It will be appreciated that the removal algorithm of step 592 may in fact comprise a sequence or hierarchy such as that used for insertion of the configuration changes as previously described, yet effectively in reverse, or can simply constitute a blanket return to the original configuration, depending on the desired attributes of the particular installation. Yet other schemes will be recognized by those of ordinary skill given the present disclosure, such as for example: (i) a “wait-and-remove” scheme, wherein the configuration changes are removed after certain periods of time have expired; (ii) dynamic determination of a removal hierarchy (e.g., where certain less-effective configuration changes, as determined by e.g., data collected during change insertion, can be preferentially removed first to as to maintain only necessary changes inserted), and (iii) dynamic sensitivity analysis, such as where the removal of inserted changes, and subsequent re-insertion thereof, is performed so as to determine the appropriate hierarchy for removal.

FIG. 6 is a ladder diagram illustrating an exemplary communications flow 600 for configuring and controlling Wi-Fi connectivity within a venue with coexisting Wi-Fi and LTE-U or LTE-LAA services, such as that previously described.

At step 602 a of the exemplary embodiment, a dedicated background scanner 214 sends an RF detection report to a CC 210. The report may contain information related to, e.g., transmit power of nearby access points and nodes, number of users, channels used, data transmission rates, beamforming settings, modulation/coding scheme (MCS), or other statistics associated with signals propagating within the venue, e.g., signals related to ongoing or newly established data sessions 604, 606 over Wi-Fi and LTE (e.g., LTE-U and/or LTE-LAA). Wi-Fi signals may originate from a Wi-Fi access point 204; LTE signals may come from a small cell or node (e.g., cell tower 408). As previously discussed, the background scanner may be strategically placed to detect signals within a particular venue or area, or scan for signals from known access points and nodes in the venue. In this exemplary embodiment, detected data session 606 corresponds to LTE-U, but other RATs may be detected. The ICC may require more than one report that confirms the presence of coexisting RATs (e.g., Wi-Fi and LTE-U). At step 602 b, one such repeated detection report may be transmitted to the CC 210.

At step 608, the CC 210 analyzes the report to determine and identify the presence of RATs (e.g., LTE tower 408 and/or Wi-Fi AP 204) near the background scanner 214. In one embodiment, the analysis of the report may include a determination of parameters as previously described; e.g., the strength or quality of the radio signals detected (including, e.g., signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and/or received signal strength indicator (RSSI)), frequency spectrum used (e.g., 5 GHz band), energy detection (ED) thresholds, channels used, and/or other connectivity parameters that indicate the likely choices that a client device may have for wirelessly connecting to a network.

At step 610, based on the analyzed report, the CC 210 determines whether LTE is present in the venue targeted by the background scanner(s) 214. For example, LTE-U or LTE-LAA operating in the same frequency band and/or channel(s) as Wi-Fi (e.g., 5 GHz band) may be detected, indicating two or more coexisting RATs. Note that in various other implementations, the CC 210 may be configured to detect RATs other than LTE (e.g., Bluetooth, LTE-A, 3G UMTS, CDMA, EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution), or 2G USM).

If the CC does not determine that LTE is present at step 610, no action is taken to adjust network settings, i.e., no collision avoidance or contention management mechanism is utilized.

If the CC 210 determines the presence of LTE at step 610, data is exchanged between the CC and provisioning server 201, the data being associated with the Wi-Fi AP(s) providing Wi-Fi service that coexists with the detected LTE service, at step 612. More specifically, the CC 210 may indicate the coexistence scenario, or which Wi-Fi AP(s) will be modified, to the CM provisioning server 201, which in turns transmits a configuration file for, e.g., Wi-Fi AP 203 to the CC (e.g., via a data “push”). In one variant, the CC may obtain the configuration files for all Wi-Fi APs in the venue that are operated by the CC (or others in which it is in communication, such as via sub-net). In one implementation, these APs include all APs that the background scanner has detected signals from (e.g., the scanner may record SSIDs that it has seen over a period of time). In another variant, the CC may selectively determine which AP(s) to tune based on coverage areas of each AP and LTE nodes that are known to be installed within the venue.

At step 614, the CC identifies the Wi-Fi AP(s) to tune as discussed above, and modifies one or more connectivity parameters contained therein, resulting in a modified configuration file (e.g., an “autoconfig” file). The modified parameters may include an increased transmit power of one or more antennas or transceivers on an AP, a lower ED threshold for Wi-Fi connectivity, and/or frequency ranges used (e.g., if LTE-U or LTE-LAA is using the 5 GHz band, then Wi-Fi may move to a less-crowded one of other legal frequencies for IEEE 802.11 protocols, i.e., one or more of 2.4 GHz, 3.6 GHz, 4.9 GHz and 5.9 GHz). Other considerations for a modified Wi-Fi connection may be considered, such as beamform parameters (e.g., modification of phase and/or amplitude of transmitter signal), physical configuration of one or more antennas at the AP (e.g., angle of antennas, relative distance from each other), and/or others.

It will be appreciated that one or a combination of these parameters may be tuned at a time, and may be modified in the opposite direction as those noted above such as e.g., for a sensitivity analysis or the like, or yet other reasons. For example, transmit power may be decreased, or ED threshold may be raised, so as to determine (via the scanner(s) 214) the effect on actual sensed RF parameters. Moreover, such counter-corrections may assure a high-speed Wi-Fi-only “hotspot”, i.e., an AP in which the service area is of a shorter range, but also may be out of range for LTE service, essentially qualifying users who prefer a stronger Wi-Fi signal even if they must be closer to the source (i.e., the AP). In one variant thereof, transmit power may be lowered based on distance, i.e., the closer a client device, the lower the transmit power. An AP may detect the distance from a client device and itself by, e.g., measuring a response time of a beacon sent to the client device, or by other means such as GPS. For an AP that typically serves relatively few client devices at a time, there is no need to maintain a large-range signal.

In another variant, power considerations may affect the transmit power when there is a limited availability of power, e.g., for a battery-powered AP or a client device low on battery. That is, if the AP is running low on battery, the AP may reduce its transmit power. Conversely, if the AP receives a low-battery indication from the client device, the AP may increase its transmit power so as to increase the likelihood that the client devices connects to a Wi-Fi signal showing higher signal strength and avoid use of a comparatively “energy-heavy” LTE interface.

Further with respect to step 614, the AP(s) may detect one or more potential client devices within the service range of the AP(s), which may be assumed to be capable of receiving both Wi-Fi and LTE services. In one embodiment, APs may detect client devices by determining which devices are already connected (i.e., by association of a given client with a given AP, its location is resolved to at least the effective range of the AP). In another embodiment, APs may find client devices by detecting responses to beacons, probe requests, or other data structures that are transmitted therefrom (e.g., broadcast), as described in, e.g., co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/063,314 filed Mar. 7, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC OPEN-ACCESS NETWORKS”, incorporated by reference supra.

At step 616, the CC 210 pushes (i.e., transmits) the modified configuration file to the identified AP(s), by wired or wireless means (e.g., via AP backhaul; see FIG. 2a ). Each AP receiving a modified configuration file updates its transmit/receive or other settings accordingly. The AP may also retain its previous and/or original configuration files within a local or remote storage unit (including the AP database 205), which may be used to revert back to a previous setting (e.g., if Wi-Fi no longer coexists with LTE, based on a determination by the CC, and/or based on other conditions). By virtue of the updated settings, the AP 204 may operate with a higher transmit power or signal strength. One end result is that the client devices may detect and/or display additional SSIDs from Wi-Fi APs for automatic or manual connection.

With regard to causing client devices to update (e.g., lower) its ED threshold, in one embodiment, the provisioning server 201 may optionally send instructions to client devices within its service range at step 618. The instructions may be configured to update client-side software settings, such as ED thresholds for Wi-Fi. For example, the threshold may be reduced to match that of LTE (or be lower), e.g., to −80 to −85 dBm. In one embodiment, these instructions may be received via the CM app 221, e.g., a downloadable software application offered by a service provider to its customers or subscribers. The app may include an application programming interface (API) available from the service provider operating the AP, and offer various resources that enhance the customer experience, e.g., convenient access to billing information and/or payment options reviewable by customers, exclusive content or media from the service provider, online or remote “cloud” storage, email access, interface for shopping for additional hardware or features, or access to support and troubleshooting help. For client devices without the software or those who are not current subscribers to the service provider, instructions may be received via bit-stuffed beacons (as described in, e.g., co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/063,314 filed Mar. 7, 2016 and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC OPEN-ACCESS NETWORKS”, incorporated by reference supra). In one variant, the network services from the Wi-Fi AP 204 are accessible only by MSO-authorized client devices or client devices running the downloadable app.

The foregoing exemplary flow process may be repeated for each instance of identifying a multi-RAT environment.

Coexistence Controller (CC) Apparatus—

FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of exemplary hardware and architecture of a controller apparatus, e.g., the Coexistence Controller (CC) 210 of FIG. 2, useful for operation in accordance with the present disclosure.

In one exemplary embodiment as shown, the CC 210 includes, inter alia, a processor apparatus or subsystem 702, a program memory module 704, a connectivity manager module 706 (here implemented as software or firmware operative to execute on the processor 702), a back-end (e.g., headend backhaul) network interface 710, and a front-end network interface 708 (i.e., AP/scanner local backhaul). Although the exemplary controller 210 may be used as described within the present disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the related arts will readily appreciate, given the present disclosure, that the controller apparatus may be virtualized and/or distributed within other core network entities (thus having ready access to power for continued operation), and hence the foregoing apparatus 210 is purely illustrative.

More particularly, the exemplary CC apparatus 210 can be physically located near or within the centralized manager network (e.g., MSO network); an intermediate entity, e.g., within a data center, such as an AP controller (see FIG. 2a ); and/or within “cloud” entities or other portions of the infrastructure of which the rest of the wireless network (as discussed supra) is a part, whether owned/operated by the MSO or otherwise. In some embodiments, the CC 210 may be one of several controllers, each having equivalent effectiveness or different levels of use, e.g., within a hierarchy (e.g., the CC 210 may be under a “parent” controller that manages multiple slave or subordinate controllers).

In one embodiment, the processor apparatus 702 may include one or more of a digital signal processor, microprocessor, field-programmable gate array, or plurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates. The processor 702 may also comprise an internal cache memory. The processing subsystem is in communication with a program memory module or subsystem 704, where the latter may include memory which may comprise, e.g., SRAM, flash and/or SDRAM components. The memory module 804 may implement one or more of direct memory access (DMA) type hardware, so as to facilitate data accesses as is well known in the art. The memory module of the exemplary embodiment contains one or more computer-executable instructions that are executable by the processor apparatus 702. A mass storage device (e.g., HDD or SSD, or even NAND flash or the like) is also provided as shown.

The processing apparatus 702 is configured to execute at least one computer program stored in memory 704 (e.g., the logic of the CC connectivity manager 706 which implements the various CC functions described herein with respect to contention management of the WLAN devices relative to other RATs). Other embodiments may implement such functionality within dedicated hardware, logic, and/or specialized co-processors (not shown). For instance, the connectivity manager functionality (or portions of the functionality thereof) can be located in one or more MSO data centers, and/or in other “cloud” entities, whether within or outside of the MSO network, and distributed across multiple domains (logical and hardware) as previously described.

In one embodiment, the connectivity manager 706 is further configured to register known downstream devices (e.g., access points and nodes), other backend devices, and wireless client devices (remotely located or otherwise), and centrally control the broader wireless network (and any constituent peer-to-peer sub-networks). Such configuration include, e.g., providing network identification (e.g., to APs, client devices, background scanner, and other downstream devices, or to upstream devices), identifying network congestion, and managing capabilities supported by the wireless network.

In some embodiments, the connectivity manager 706 may also be capable of obtaining data, and even use M2M learning or other logic to identify and learn patterns among detected RF signals (e.g., RAT interference occurs at certain times of day or locations, or how often a particular Wi-Fi AP needs to implement contention management with another RAT). Patterns may be derived from, for example, analysis of historical data collected from the reports from the background scanner over time. In one variant, the connectivity manager 706 may, without waiting for or analyzing a report from the background scanner, automatically send a templated configuration file to one or more APs that serve client devices that are likely affected by contention with another RAT (e.g., LTE-U or LTE-LAA), where the templated configuration file contains typical or recurring modifications that are made to the APs that frequently require such modifications.

In one embodiment, the connectivity manager 706 accesses the mass storage 705 (or the AP DB 205) to retrieve stored data. The data or information may relate to reports or configuration files as noted above. Such reports or files may be accessible by the connectivity manager 706 and/or processor 702, as well as other network entities, e.g., a CM provisioning server 201 or wireless APs 202, 204, 206, 208. The connectivity manager 706 may retrieve a configuration file from the mass storage 705, AP DB 205, or provisioning server 201, and then modify connectivity parameters stored in the configuration file based at least in part on reports received from the background scanner and other identified network conditions (e.g., congestion level, status of APs, number of client devices), the reports containing information with respect to, inter alia, downstream network entities and network conditions. In one alternate variant, the CM provisioning server 201 is part of the CC architecture (e.g., virtualized and/or incorporated as a discrete module within the CC 210).

In other embodiments, application program interfaces (APIs) such as those included in an MSO-provided applications, installed with other proprietary software, or natively available on the controller apparatus (e.g., as part of the computer program noted supra or exclusively internal to the connectivity manager 706) may also reside in the internal cache or other memory 704. Such APIs may include common network protocols or programming languages configured to enable communication with other network entities as well as receipt and transmit signals that a receiving device (e.g., Wi-Fi AP, client device) may interpret.

In another embodiment, the connectivity manager 706 is further configured to communicate with one or more authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) servers of the network. The AAA servers are configured to provide services for, e.g., authorization and/or control of network subscribers for controlling access and enforcing policies related thereto with respect to computer resources, enforcing policies, auditing usage, and providing the information necessary to bill for services. AAA servers may further be useful for providing subscriber-exclusive features or content via, e.g., downloadable MSO-provided applications.

In some variants, authentication processes are configured to identify an AP, a client device, or an end user, such as by having the client device identify or end user enter valid credentials (e.g., user name and password, or Globally Unique Identifier (GUID)) before network access or other services provided by the operator may be granted to the client device and its user. Following authentication, the AAA servers may grant authorization to a subscriber user for certain features, functions, and/or tasks, including access to MSO-provided email account, cloud storage account, streaming content, billing information, exclusive media content, etc. Authentication processes may be configured to identify or estimate which of the known APs serviced by the CC 210 tend to serve users or client devices that subscribe to the MSO's services, thereby providing additional insights with respect to how a particular AP may be treated. For example, if a first AP serves many clients relative to another AP, the CC may favor the first AP by, e.g., configuring the connectivity parameters to be more aggressive, resulting in a better or additional end-user experiences for subscribers.

Returning to the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 7, one or more network “front-end” interfaces 708 are utilized in the illustrated embodiment for communication with downstream network entities, e.g., APs, background scanner, and/or other WLAN-to-controller backhaul entities and intermediate data centers, via, e.g., Ethernet or other wired and/or wireless data network protocols. Reports transmitted from the background scanner are routed via the network interface to the connectivity manager 706 within the CC protocol stack. Modified configuration files are routed via the network interface from the connectivity manager 706 to one or more APs via inter-process communications (e.g., the manager 706 to a corresponding software or firmware process running on the relevant AP).

In the exemplary embodiment, one or more backend interfaces 710 are configured to transact one or more network address packets with other networked devices, particularly backend apparatus such as the CM provisioning server 201, CMTS, Layer 3 switch, network monitoring center, AAA server, etc. according to a network protocol. Common examples of network routing protocols include for example: Internet Protocol (IP), Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX), and Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) based network technologies (e.g., Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET), Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH), Frame Relay). In one embodiment, the backend network interface(s) 710 operate(s) in signal communication with the backbone of the content delivery network (CDN), such as that of FIGS. 1-2 a. These interfaces might comprise, for instance, GbE (Gigabit Ethernet) or other interfaces of suitable bandwidth capability.

It will also be appreciated that the two interfaces 708, 710 may be aggregated together and/or shared with other extant data interfaces, such as in cases where a controller function is virtualized within another component, such as an MSO network server performing that function.

Scanner Apparatus—

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary dedicated background radio scanner 214 according to the present disclosure. As shown, the background scanner 214 includes, inter alia, a processor apparatus or subsystem 802, a program memory module 804, mass storage 805, a connectivity manager portion 806, one or more network (e.g., LAN, or backhaul) interfaces 808, as well as one or more radio frequency (RF) devices 809 having, inter alia, antenna(e) 810 and one or more RF tuners 815.

Although a dedicated background scanner apparatus 214 such as that of FIG. 8 may be used as described within the present disclosure, artisans of ordinary skill in the related arts will readily appreciate, given the present disclosure, that the background scanner may be virtualized and/or distributed within other network entities (e.g., an AP, or the CC 210 if locally disposed), the foregoing apparatus being purely illustrative.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processor 802 may include one or more of a digital signal processor, microprocessor, field-programmable gate array, or plurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates. The processor 802 may also comprise an internal cache memory, and is in communication with a memory subsystem 804, which can comprise, e.g., SRAM, flash and/or SDRAM components. The memory subsystem may implement one or more of DMA type hardware, so as to facilitate data accesses as is well known in the art. The memory subsystem of the exemplary embodiment contains computer-executable instructions which are executable by the processor 802.

The RF antenna(s) 810 are configured to detect signals from radio access technologies (RATs) in the venue. For example, Wi-Fi signals and LTE (including, e.g., LTE-U, LTE-LAA) signals may be detected, along with networking information such as number and type of RATs (e.g., Wi-Fi, LTE-U, LTE-LAA), frequency bands used (e.g., 2.4 or 5.8 GHz among others), channels the signals are occupying, number of connections, etc. As referenced elsewhere herein, the antenna(s) 810 of the scanner may include multiple spatially diverse individual elements in e.g., a MIMO- or MISO-type configuration, such that spatial diversity of the received signals can be utilized. Moreover, a phased array or similar arrangement can be used for spatial resolution within the environment, such as based on time delays associated with signals received by respective elements.

As noted above, the scanner apparatus 214 also includes an LTE emulator module 813, which in the illustrated embodiment acts as receiver and decoder of LTE-based signals. For example, in one implementation, the module 813 includes the ability to (whether via the scanner radio 809 or its own indigenous radio) to measure RSSI and implement Zadoff-Chu autocorrelation sequence analysis for extraction of PSS timing data, as well as logic enabling decode of one or more broadcast channels such as PDSCH or PDCCH.

The tuner 815 in one embodiment comprises a digitally controlled RF tuner capable of reception of signals via the RF front end (receive chain) of the scanner radio 809 in the aforementioned bands, including simultaneous reception (e.g., both 2.4 and 5.0 GHz band at the same time), and has sufficient reception bandwidth to identify emitters that are significantly below or above the above-listed nominal frequencies, yet still within the relevant operating band restrictions (e.g., within the relevant ISM band).

The processing apparatus 802 is configured to execute at least one computer program stored in memory 804 (e.g., a non-transitory computer readable storage medium); in the illustrated embodiment, such programs include a scanner portion of the CM application 806. Other embodiments may implement such functionality within dedicated hardware, logic, and/or specialized co-processors (not shown).

In the illustrated embodiment, the background scanner 214 includes the connectivity manager module portion 806. The connectivity manager 806 is a firmware or software module that collects information regarding the radio signals via the radio 809 into a report or other data structure that is parse-able and capable of analysis by the CC 210 and/or other upstream or backend entities.

In some embodiments, the connectivity manager program 806 utilizes memory 804 or other storage 805 configured to temporarily hold a number of data reports or files before transmission via the backend interface(s) 810 to the CC 210. In other embodiments, application program interfaces (APIs) such as those included in an MSO-provided application or those natively available on the AP (e.g., as part of the computer program noted supra or associated with the connectivity manager 806) may also reside in the internal cache or other memory 804. Such APIs may include common network protocols or programming languages configured to enable communication with the CC 210 and other network entities as well as use procedures for collecting, compressing and/or parsing information obtained via the antenna(s) 808 and radio 809 such that a receiving device (e.g., CC, Wi-Fi AP, etc.) may interpret the reports in order to extract and analyze the relevant information.

In a different embodiment (see dashed arrow in FIG. 8), one or more network interfaces 808 are utilized for receiving communications or data from upstream entities such as the CC 210. In a basic implementation, the scanner is primarily just a one-way “detector” that obtains RF signals, performs whatever processing in the digital domain it is equipped for on the signals (after conversion via the RF front end ADC), if any, and then forwards the raw or processed data to the relevant upstream entity such as the CC 210. However, in more sophisticated implementations, the scanner 214 may include logic to receive data and/or commands from an upstream entity, such as e.g., configuration data for its own radio 809 (i.e., such that the CC 210 or other upstream entity can configure the scanner with respect to detection of the appropriate bands, MCS, energy threshold, etc.), and/or implement various functions such “wake/sleep”, power on/off, reset, test mode, etc. The scanner may, in certain embodiments, also be configured to communicate with other networked entities, including downstream and neighboring devices (e.g., Wi-Fi APs, other scanners, AP controllers) via, e.g., Ethernet or other wired and/or wireless data network protocols, such as via the network interface. For instance, in one implementation, the scanner 214 may communicate in a peer-to-peer fashion with another scanner in the venue that is not directly controlled by the CC 210 or other controller entity, such as to configure that other scanner, obtain signal data obtained thereby, or act as test beacons for each other.

Business Methods—

The foregoing examples and embodiments may be utilized for methods directed to furthering business operations of service providers (e.g., cable operators).

As one example, data services provided by an MSO (e.g., cable operator) via its Wi-Fi infrastructure may be delivered to subscribers (and potential customers) near an access point within a prescribed venue as described above. By increasing the availability of Wi-Fi services using modified transmit parameters (e.g., lower ED threshold, increased transmit power and signal strength), subscribers are given more options for connecting to the network (e.g., the Internet). Subscribers may feel that the services they have subscribed to (or have utilized on a trial or incidental without being a subscriber) are highly accessible (i.e., good network coverage), thus improving customer experience and satisfaction, for example as compared to competing service providers. This is especially true where the service is branded by the MSO; i.e., associated directly with the MSO as opposed to the venue. For instance, a Charter Communications-sponsored event at a venue may, as part of its available services, have Wi-Fi “stuffed beacons” as previously described herein advertising the availability of Charter Wi-Fi at the event. Non-subscriber users who have their Wi-Fi enabled can receive the information via the stuffed beacons (e.g., as a small pop-up or textual/ticker notification), and enabling the notified user to merely click on a link to access the appropriate URL for use of the services, rather than utilize say their LTE interface. Assuming the provided WLAN services (e.g., connectivity/persistence, data rate, etc.) to be comparatively good due to better “competitiveness” with other competing RATs by virtue of e.g., reducing the ED threshold of the APs/client or other means, then user will be favorably impressed with the performance level and ease of connection.

Moreover, non-subscriber ad hoc users may be captured more efficiently when the cable operator's services (e.g., Wi-Fi connections via hotspots) are readily available. For example, in a public venue such as a waiting area or a gate at an airport, end users of mobile devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops, tablets) may seek diversion or productivity by connecting to the Internet or other wireless networks. By offering a free means of accessing such networks via Wi-Fi while conserving battery power and data limitations (e.g., by LTE providers), users may attribute an enhanced sense of satisfaction or competitive reputation with respect to the cable operator, potentially leading to a paid service subscription with the cable operator in the future.

Furthermore, establishments relevant at certain venues may be open to collaboration in which network services provided, e.g., via Wi-Fi. For instance, a travel equipment company may seek to place advertisements in front of travelers. In this case, the cable operator may receive consideration for placing advertisements for the travel equipment company, where end users may watch an advertisement to gain access to the network via Wi-Fi. In one variant, existing subscribers may access the network without viewing an advertisement. In another variant, non-subscribers may access the network in exchange for a fee to offset costs of operation and/or generate revenue. Notably, the user's desire to use the WLAN service (and hence view the ads) may be directly related to their perceived quality of the service; i.e., data rate, ease of connection, persistence, etc. Most people will watch one or two short ads to obtain high-performance and reliable WLAN service, especially when use of LTE (and its prospective costs) can be obviated, especially when the connection to the WLAN services in a multi-RAT environment are made easy and efficient.

It will be recognized that while certain aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of a specific sequence of steps of a method, these descriptions are only illustrative of the broader methods of the disclosure, and may be modified as required by the particular application. Certain steps may be rendered unnecessary or optional under certain circumstances. Additionally, certain steps or functionality may be added to the disclosed embodiments, or the order of performance of two or more steps permuted. All such variations are considered to be encompassed within the disclosure disclosed and claimed herein.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the disclosure as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. This description is in no way meant to be limiting, but rather should be taken as illustrative of the general principles of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure should be determined with reference to the claims.

It will be further appreciated that while certain steps and aspects of the various methods and apparatus described herein may be performed by a human being, the disclosed aspects and individual methods and apparatus are generally computerized/computer-implemented. Computerized apparatus and methods are necessary to fully implement these aspects for any number of reasons including, without limitation, commercial viability, practicality, and even feasibility (i.e., certain steps/processes simply cannot be performed by a human being in any viable fashion). 

1.-19. (canceled)
 20. Computer readable apparatus comprising a non-transitory storage medium, the non-transitory storage medium comprising at least one computer program having a plurality of instructions, the plurality of instructions configured to, when executed on a processing apparatus, cause: receipt of first data representative of one or more configurations respectively associated with one or more wireless access point (AP) apparatus; receipt of second data representative of at least one of (i) one or more user preferences, or (ii) one or more operating contexts, associated with at least one computerized client device; modification of a configuration data structure, the modification based at least in part on the first data and the second data; and transmission of the modified configuration data structure to at least one of the one or more wireless (AP) apparatus, the modified configuration data structure configured to cause the at least one wireless (AP) apparatus to adjust one or more operational parameters.
 21. The computer readable apparatus of claim 20, wherein the at least one computer program comprises a connection manager process configured to be executed at least in part on a processing apparatus of the at least one computerized client device.
 22. The computer readable apparatus of claim 20, wherein the second data representative of the at least one of (i) the one or more user preferences, or (ii) the one or more operating contexts, associated with the at least one computerized client device, comprises data indicative of at least one preference to reduce at least one of a quota or charge against 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) compliant cellular network data usage.
 23. The computer readable apparatus of claim 20, wherein the second data representative of the at least one of (i) the one or more user preferences, or (ii) the one or more operating contexts, associated with the at least one computerized client device, comprises data representative of a preference to save battery power of the at least one computerized client device.
 24. The computer readable apparatus of claim 20, wherein the second data representative of the at least one of (i) the one or more user preferences, or (ii) the one or more operating contexts, associated with the at least one computerized client device, comprises data representative of a preference to gain access to services particular to a service provider of which a user of the at least one computerized client device is a subscriber.
 25. A computerized client device, comprising: a wireless local area network (WLAN) data interface; a non-WLAN data interface; processor apparatus in data communication with the WLAN data interface; and storage apparatus in data communication with the processor apparatus and comprising a non-transitory storage medium, the non-transitory storage medium comprising at least one computer program having a plurality of instructions, the plurality of instructions configured to, when executed on the processing apparatus, cause the computerized client device to: receive first data representative of one or more configurations respectively associated with one or more WLAN wireless access point (AP) apparatus; obtain second data representative of at least one of (i) one or more user preferences associated with the computerized client device, or (ii) one or more operating contexts of the computerized client device; based at least in part on the first data and the second data, cause transmission of data configured to cause at least one of the one or more wireless (AP) apparatus to adjust one or more operational parameters, the adjustment configured to change an aggressiveness of a connection routine associated with the WLAN data interface relative to a connection routine of the non-WLAN data interface, the change of the aggressiveness to enable one or more preferred connection characteristics for the computerized client device consistent with second data.
 26. The computer readable apparatus of claim 25, wherein the non-WLAN data interface comprises a 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) compliant wireless interface, and the change an aggressiveness of a connection routine associated with the WLAN data interface relative to a connection routine of the non-WLAN data interface comprises making the WLAN data interface more likely to connect than the 3GPP compliant wireless interface when the computerized client device is within an area where both WLAN wireless coverage and 3GPP-compliant wireless coverage is present.
 27. The computer readable apparatus of claim 25, wherein: the one or more wireless AP apparatus are associated with a service provider network of which a user of the computerized client device is a subscriber; and the enablement of the one or more preferred connection characteristics for the computerized client device consistent with second data comprises enablement of the computerized client device to preferentially connect to one or more of the wireless AP apparatus when the computerized client device is within an area where both WLAN wireless coverage and 3GPP-compliant wireless coverage is present so as to at least reduce usage of the non-WLAN data interface.
 28. The computer readable apparatus of claim 25, wherein: the one or more wireless AP apparatus are associated with a service provider network of which a user of the computerized client device is a subscriber; and the enablement of the one or more preferred connection characteristics for the computerized client device consistent with second data comprises enablement of the computerized client device to preferentially connect to one or more of the wireless AP apparatus when the computerized client device is within a prescribed venue where both WLAN wireless coverage and 3GPP-compliant wireless coverage is present.
 29. The computer readable apparatus of claim 25, wherein: the one or more wireless AP apparatus are associated with a service provider network of which a user of the computerized client device is a subscriber; and the enablement of the one or more preferred connection characteristics for the computerized client device consistent with second data comprises enablement of the computerized client device to preferentially connect to one or more of the wireless AP apparatus when the computerized client device is within an area where both WLAN wireless coverage and 3GPP-compliant wireless coverage is present in order to meet one or more quality of service goals or requirements.
 30. A background scanner apparatus, comprising: an radio frequency (RF) receiver apparatus; an antenna apparatus; a processor apparatus in data communication with the RF receiver apparatus and the antenna apparatus; and a storage apparatus in data communication with the processor apparatus and comprising at least one computer program, the at least one computer program comprising a plurality of instructions which are configured to, when executed by the processor apparatus, cause the background scanner apparatus to: cause a configuration of the background scanner apparatus to scan for one or more RF bands of interest; detect, via the antenna apparatus, one or more signals that are propagating within a venue, the one or more signals associated with the one or more RF bands of interest; compare one or more values associated with the one or more signals to measured values compared to one or more prescribed criteria; based at least on the comparison, determine that the one or more values at least meet the one or more prescribed criteria; and based at least on the determination, transmit data associated with the one or more values to a controller apparatus; wherein the transmitted data is configured to be utilized by the controller apparatus to adjust one or more configurations for one or more respective wireless access point apparatus.
 31. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the causation of the configuration of the background scanner apparatus to scan for the one or more RF bands of interest comprises causation of the configuration of the background scanner apparatus to detect only one or more types of signals which are known to be routinely present within the venue, the one or more types of signals comprising at least one of (i) Wi-Fi or LTE (Long Term Evolution).
 32. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, when executed by the processor apparatus, cause the background scanner apparatus to: report one or more network conditions within the venue to the controller apparatus, but not provide connectivity to any client devices in the venue.
 33. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, when executed by the processor apparatus, cause the background scanner apparatus to: provide data to enable spatial resolution of the detected one or more signals.
 34. The background scanner apparatus of claim 33, wherein the spatial resolution of the detected one or more signals comprises a map of RSSI as a function of absolute or relative azimuth.
 35. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the background scanner apparatus is disposed within a prescribed distance from at least one wireless access point of an operator of a managed network, such that the background scanner apparatus can detect whether any other RAT (radio access technology) of a different service provider than the managed network is within a range of the at least one wireless access point and could interfere with the at least one wireless access point.
 36. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the background scanner apparatus comprises an existent wireless access point repurposed to use the antenna apparatus to detect the one or more signals and transmit the data associated with the one or more values to the controller apparatus.
 37. The background scanner apparatus of claim 30, wherein the plurality of instructions are further configured to, when executed by the processor apparatus, cause the background scanner apparatus to: monitor one or more computerized client devices for one or more network conditions; receive non-service data relating to the one or more network conditions from the one or more computerized client devices; and report the non-service data to the controller apparatus, the non-service data configured to enable the controller apparatus to determine whether performance one or more computerized client devices is sufficient, and based on a determination that the performance of the one or more computerized client devices is sufficient, enable the controller apparatus to re-adjust the one or more configurations for one or more respective wireless access point apparatus.
 38. A computerized method of characterizing one or more RAT (radio access technology) interference sources, the computerized method comprising: causing detection and decoding of one or more broadcast channels associated with the one or more RATs; and calculating one or more radio frequency (RF)-related parameters based on the decoded one or more broadcast channels and knowledge of path loss data for the one or more broadcast channels.
 39. The computerized method of claim 38, further comprising, based on the one or more RF-related parameters, enabling an alternative type of wireless connectivity to one or more computerized user devices.
 40. The computerized method of claim 39, further comprising collecting data usage information via wireless connectivity provided to the one or more computerized user devices.
 41. The computerized method of claim 39, wherein: the causing of the detection and decoding of the one or more broadcast channels associated with the one or more RATs comprises: causing detection of a concurrent deployment of a first radio protocol and a second radio protocol within at least a prescribed area; and receiving data representative of a configuration of a wireless access point (AP) located within the prescribed area, the data comprising data descriptive of a plurality of parameters associated with a wireless interface of the wireless AP utilizing the first radio protocol; and the enabling of the alternative type of wireless connectivity to the one or more computerized user devices comprises: modifying the data representative of the configuration, the modification comprising an update of at least one of the plurality of parameters, the modifying of the at least one operational characteristic comprising increasing a transmit power from at least one antenna of the wireless interface of the wireless AP, the increasing in transmit power of magnitude sufficient to enable the one or more computerized user devices to switch from using the second radio protocol to using the first radio protocol.
 42. The computerized method of claim 38, further comprising: utilizing the one or more RF-related parameters to adjust one or more connectivity parameters of the one or more RATs; causing implementation of the one or more adjusted connectivity parameters at the one or more RATs; causing monitoring of one or more RF performance parameters at one or more computerized user devices in data communication with the one or more RATs; based on the monitoring, receiving data related to the one or more RF performance parameters; and based on the received data, determining whether to re-adjust the one or more connectivity parameters of the one or more RATs.
 43. The computerized method of claim 42, wherein the implementation of the one or more adjusted connectivity parameters at the one or more RATs cause the one or more computerized user devices to establish data communication with a first RAT over a second RAT despite the second RAT having a stronger signal strength than the first RAT.
 44. The computerized method of claim 43, further comprising: receiving data representative of at least one of (i) one or more user preferences, or (ii) one or more operating contexts, associated with the one or more computerized user devices; and wherein the causation of the one or more computerized user devices to establish the data communication with the first RAT over the second RAT despite the second RAT having the stronger signal strength than the first RAT is based on the at least one of (i) one or more user preferences, or (ii) one or more operating contexts. 